Thursday, October 15, 2009

Time Out NY names Bobby Berk Home Top Picks for Linens in NYC - We LOVE TIME OUT!


Best shops for linens and bedding
Cozy up with cute designs from these top picks.
By Lisa Freedman

If you have a bed and are under the age of 65, this is the linen shop for you. Any flower or paisley patterns stocked here are of the modern variety and definitely won’t make you feel like you’re hopping into bed at your granny’s house. The shop also carries higher-end brands such as DwellStudio, Nancy Koltes and Amenity Home—with prices to match (think ballpark $259 for a full sheet set). But don’t despair: There are sales throughout the year, including two big sample ones (once in February and once in the summer) during which items are marked down by 70 percent. 59 Crosby St between Broome and Spring Sts (866-965-9793, bobbyberkhome.com)

Is it a coat closet, or a Gorilla?


If you love Gorillas, you'll love this modern take on the beautiful creature. This behemoth was created entirely out of bent coat hangers by Scottish artist David Mach. And I think we can all agree, it speaks volumes. About how, you know, gorillas like to hang from stuff. ;-)

Tuesday, October 6, 2009

Dwell Bedding: Fine Affordable Luxury Linens


Dwell bedding has quickly made a name for itself as being representative of fine luxurious linens. Only being founded in 1999, the point the founders of the company wanted to make was to introduce modern textile design into home decorating fashion trends. The home furnishings company of DwellStudio creates everything from furniture and accessories to bedding for infants, children, and adults who want simple and fine products for their homes.
Some of the most popular products that Dwell Bedding is responsible for include their Egyptian cotton sheets. These are 100% Egyptian cotton and are reactive printed- this means that the colors they use are bright and saturated and that they also last quite a long time. Their linens are kept best when they are taken out of the dryer when they are still slightly damp, and they should then be put on the bed to finish drying- this helps keep the linens wrinkle-free as they finish drying.
Not only are the colors for many Dwell bedding products popular, but the designs and patterns are as well. Floral mixes, strong bold solids, and contemporary stripes are sophisticated and comfortable. Crib sets are some of their finest and most popular products and include reversible play blankets, linen bumpers, cotton percale sheets, and crib skirts made of smooth sateen. Duvets and shams are 100% cotton percale, and sheets are also available in 100% Egyptian cotton. Twin sheet sets include a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and a pillow case and two pillow cases are included for larger sets.
Coordinating and mixing and matching pieces of their different collections are what loyal fans of Dwell bedding do best, and the pieces are tailored to fit everyone’s tastes and preferences as well as different budgets. Quilts go nicely with duvets, and sheet sets look very favorable with different accent pillows, for example. The materials that the design firm uses are top quality, and they launder beautifully as well. This means for busy people less time fussing with linens and more time to take care of other things around the house that demand more attention to stay beautiful! Large geometric patterns and single, large pieces of design can be found on some of the most popular products from the company. The durability of the company’s products and the ability for them to resist staining are other inviting features that are present in Dwell bedding for consumers to fall in love with.

Featured Design Firms: DwellStudio


DwellStudio is one of the most recognized new design firms of today, and the company has made a name for itself not only as a leader in design but also as a leader in furnishings as well. Everything from furniture to table linens can be credited to the company, and much of their style for their products is based on simplicity and bold design that does not rely on lavishness or a lot of fancy frills to get noticed. There is much more to the basis of this design company than meets the eye, and there is much to know about the interior design business as a whole.
If you are looking to transform the look of your living space, introducing modern textile designs from DwellStudio into the fabrics that are in your home is the best way to go. There are so many designs and fabrics available that set the bar for designers to follow, and the leaders in the industry are the ones who take a chance with a new expressionism of simplicity and boldness at the same time. The company uses the finest textiles, fabrics, materials, and linens for every one of their products, and they use the best woods, plastics, and metals for their other product lines such as furniture and home accessories, too.
One of the things that makes DwellStudio so unique is the fact that they utilize the appealing attraction of simplicity to catch the eyes of customers. In contrast to the ornate lavish trends that we saw in the early 1900s, the styles that the company uses today are vastly simple but startlingly eye-catching as well. As opposed to a duvet fully covered in a pattern of bright, little flowers, their style is to instead use one large stark flower right in the middle of the duvet and that is it (as an example). The colors they choose are soothing and natural as opposed to forced and overly bright.
One of the most popular materials to use for linens today is Egyptian cotton. Sheets that are woven from 100% Egyptian cotton are very soft and also very durable as well. Bedding that is reactive printed so that it keeps its saturated bright colors is used by Dwellstudio. For Egyptian cotton fabrics, it is recommended that the bedding be washed in the washing machine and taken out of the dryer when it is still just a bit damp. Placing them on the bed to finish drying will help reduce wrinkles when it is dry, all without ever plugging in an iron.
If you find that you have grown tired of the same old trends, the same old patterns, and the same overly-chaotic styles that are reminiscent of the 1960s, 70s, and 80s, you will find that the products that are designed by DwellStudio are refreshingly simple.

Shopping for the Best Cribs and Accessories


Cribs and accessories today can be found in all kinds of styles and designs, and in order for a shopper to be able to get a good look at everything that is available to them out there, it is necessary to shop online and browse the entire global marketplace for fashions. Cribs and accessories are bought and sold all over the world every day, and you’ll want to get in on the action in order to find the very best possible products for your baby and your home. Whether you choose a retro design, a shabby chic motif, or an elegant, simple theme to decorate your baby’s room in, you can find everything you could ever need via the Internet. Thanks to the ability of the World Wide Web to bring a global marketplace into our living rooms, you can now have the world literally at your fingertips to shop. This of course means that your opportunities to find the perfect ensembles are endless.
Cribs and accessories are available to complement any type of décor, whether it is a traditional theme, a modern and contemporary theme, or something else. You can be sure that you find the best products at the best prices as long as you shop around first. One good rule of thumb to follow is to always shop around online before you buy, just as you would do if you were shopping at a traditional shopping mall instead of shopping online.
As far as baby bedding and linens go, there are several different types of prints in thousands of different styles that will certainly compliment any décor and motif. One of the most popular motifs for modern baby bedding is a wild animal print. It can be tiger, zebra, or giraffe, but the animal prints are hot, and a nursery to compliment wild animal motifs can include anything that has to do with a rainforest or jungle, which can be a lot of fun. Another popular theme these days for modern baby bedding is Noah’s Ark. Although the Noah’s Ark bedding has been around for quite a while, it continues to be popular and the design always seems to update to stay modern and not dated.
Baby cribs and bedding are also following the latest trends of being as “natural” as possible, which means that from the color to the material to the lack of chemicals, the natural trend for furniture means a healthier retreat back to the simple aspects of decorating.

Shopping at Furniture Stores Online

Finding modern bedding at furniture stores online will bring to shoppers an expansive division of textiles that range from simple, light linens to major home furnishings. Different fabrics and materials such as taffeta and silk, cotton and polyester are used today and are presented in designs that are natural, geometric, chic, modern, retro, and others as well. What is really great about decorating trends today is the fact that designs can be bold and bright or simple and light in color, and furniture stores online are some of the most shopped retail venues today.
One of the biggest trends seen at furniture stores online lately in modern bedding has to do with the simplicity of the bed structure. Design this year has deemed the platform bed as one of the biggest new trends for the home. Platform beds that are decorated with modern bedding have a charming, yet sophisticated look. The lines that make the platform beds so popular are simple. The idea of the platform bed is taken from the Asian trend of having the bed as close to the ground as possible. This look has evolved as a modern bedding style that is popular in Europe and in the United States.
Furniture stores online with a large assortment of platform beds and bedding really do see a lot of business, especially from fashion-savvy shoppers. While some platform beds are simply a literal “box” that fits around the mattress, others are more elaborate (yet still simple) designs that can be found in any variety of colors. Some are grander and more detailed than others, balanced with simple modern bedding, and others are more straight and geometric in design, accented with bold colors and lines. Even if you are not sure that you like the style of the platform beds, you are sure to find all kinds of furniture in other designs and styles at online furniture stores too.
Everything from accent pieces to appliances and everyday furniture like sofas and dining sets can be found on the Internet for sale, whether they be from private sellers or from large retail shopping center websites. If you are searching for anything new for your home, no matter what the style is you are sure to find something you love that suits not only your style well but also suits the style of your family well. Online furniture stores are the way to go for easy, convenient, and fun shopping.

notNeutral: Perfect Design for the Home


notNeutral is one of the top emerging decorating and design firms in the country, and although it is young it is already known throughout the nation for its interior design with urban flair. Architectural work, landscape architecture, exhibit and product design are its trademarks, and the many talents that culminate to create this company are all rolled beautifully into one firm. One of the most unique traits of the notNeutral firm is the pattern of colors and designs that they use- they have available to their credit everything from linens to children’s furniture to 700-seat entertainment venues.
Although notNeutral is notable for several different designs of theirs, there are a few that seem to really stand out. The designs for their bedding are generally playful, simple, and graceful- often all at the same time. Not only are the designs created with the child in mind, but they are also created with parents in mind as well- for example, a child’s bed might have a storage bench or toy box at the end of it. The bedding that the company makes to complement their beds and furniture is made of organic cotton and has a poly blend fill, being made with non-toxic and biodegradable so they are very healthy and not harmful at all to children.
In addition, their children’s furniture includes different types of pieces such as child-size tables and chairs in beautiful and attractive colors that children love. Colors such as ozone blue, lotus green, and persimmon orange are popular, and in their most popular collections the tables are all dark sable. Thermoplastic polymer paint and polyurethane finishes are used, and their furniture is oil resistant and is also extremely easy to clean. In addition to beds, tables, and chairs, dressers and end tables as well as other pieces of furniture are available to complete the look of any room, whether it be a child’s room or an adult’s room.
notNeutral has furniture that is not only classy but is also functional, affordable, and durable. The functionality and attractiveness of all of their products is unsurpassed, and it is becoming easy to spot these distinct notNeutral products amongst other products by other companies.

Fall and Autumn Trends for Home Décor


With every changing season comes new trends and looks for the home, and this season is no exception. Soft, warm, and inviting home furnishings are always in style at this time of year, and some of the most popular brands of home décor and furnishings have launched their fall home collections, which have loyal consumers clamoring for the latest styles.
As far as colors go, the earthy, neutral tones of spring and summer are giving way to bolder colors like black, grey, red, and even white. These three colors together blend perfectly to create a warm yet bold and interesting collage for homes that are dressed either in traditional décor or in modern contemporary décor. Using the black and grey as main colors with red as the accent color is one of the most popular trends this season, and what is really great about the three colors together is that they look very fashionable throughout the entire year, not just in one season or another.
In addition to color, materials are in style that are high grade such as wool, boucle, silk, genuine leather, and of course cotton. What is new recently for these materials though is the use of organics like cotton. There are many benefits to using organic materials other than the comfort that they provide. The lack of chemicals and toxins like pesticides and fertilizers means that none of those harmful substances are absorbed into the body through the skin. Many baby products are now made with organic materials. The natural and luxurious feel of this material couples with safety and peace of mind for a flawless combination, whether we are talking about infant clothing or linens and bedding fit for a king.
Modern décor also infuses with soft organics the bold, strong look of metal, and not much is needed to create a modern Mecca of flawless design and décor. Shiny, beautiful metal paired with bold plastics also contributes to the warm and bold looks for this fall, so have fun being bold with metals and soft with fabrics this season.

Cool Fall Designs for Modern Bedding



With the summer of 2009 having come and gone, many of us are turning our attention to our homes as we put away the patio umbrellas and stock the pantry with hot chocolate. Many people enjoy changing up their bedding with the changing of the seasons, and fortunately there is a huge variety of patterns, materials, colors, textures, and designs that the linens and bedding are available in. There are a lot of great designers that present beautiful modern bedding collections to us this fall which include the likes of Matteo, DwellStudio, and others. These and other top design firms offer solid colors, simple geometric patterns, and sophisticated designs. Some of the most popular items that people love to dress their beds up in include coverlets, bed skirts, comforters, quilts, duvets, and more. It seems that there are patterns and designs that are more popular than others every year, and for autumn of this year we are seeing simple bold stripes and either natural solid colors or bold and bright patterns.
There are so many different ways that top designers have integrated these patterns into their products for the fall, and there is surely something for everyone out there. From bold, fat stripes to thin, light pin stripes, which type of patterns you end up using for your home will ultimately depend on your own sense of style. Natural, earthy tones are en vogue this season and include warm golds, sheering burgundies, and soothing browns. Small repeating patterns that flood bedding are not chic this season, but single expressions of larger patterns are more popular. Part of the appeal of designs for fall include the simplicity in design with bedding standing out against a more bold background, topped off with dramatic yet understated accessories.
The key idea today for posh designs for autumn includes not being afraid to try something new. Using organic materials like 100% organic cotton is also thick in the trends today, not only because of the softness of them but also because of their durability, manageability, and healthful benefits. The dyes that are used are non-toxic and have no harmful ingredients that are absorbed into the skin, lending favor to a truly restful and comfortable good night’s sleep.

Monday, October 5, 2009

Time Out New York names Bobby Berk Home top place for Wedding Registries



Check out Time Out New York's article about the best places in New York City to register for your wedding. Check it out online or in the October 1-7 issue on page 38.

Friday, September 25, 2009

What's all the buzz about "Gracie"?

Who is "Gracie"?

Have you been searching for a sectional and just can't quite find the right color, fabric, or base options to make your living space complete?

That's "Gracie". Finally, the Gracie Sectional by Bobby Berk Home is an exciting modern twist on a classic sectional that now comes in a large variety of colors, fabrics (including leather), and base options. This beautifully constructed tufted sectional is made in the US.

(For additional options not seen online, please visit the Soho showroom in NYC)

Green Accessories for your Iphone & Ipod from Vers


It’s beautiful
In the hands of a craftsman, wood is simply the most beautiful material around. Vers Audio Iphone Cases are crafted from select US hardwoods and Bamboo, each case has it’s own unique character.
It’s tough
Wood is tough stuff - it’s nature’s version of carbon fiber. Naturally rigid and impact-resistant, when reinforced with steel pins, it’s serious protection for your iPod/iPhone.
It’s renewable
For every tree we use, we replant 100 through our partnership with The Arbor Day Foundation and the US Forrestry Service to re-forrest areas damaged by fire and other natural disasters.
Specifications

• Hand-crafted from solid hardwoods & Bamboo
• Steel pin reinforced corners for added strength
• Soft, scratch-resistant lining
• Durable UV & moisture-resistant clear coat

• Large radii for easy pocket & bag access
• Quick-eject rear finger detail

Wednesday, September 23, 2009

Bold, Modern, Red Hot, and Beautiful


There is absolutely nothing mediocre about this bold and beautiful sofa. The Rosetta Two collection by Bobby Berk Home is simply "hot". This modern mid-century inspired sofa is made in Los Angeles and features fine American made craftsmanship. The sofa has modern clean lines, solid wood base, tufted seat and back and is available in a soothing Burberry Slate, Hallmark Meadow, Hollis Topaz, and vibrant Runway Cardinal.

Monday, September 21, 2009

More Great Furniture from Bobby Berk Home on TLC's 'Moving Up'


Check Out Episode 403, 407 and 409 to see great modern furniture, rugs, lighting and more from Bobby Berk Home on TLC's "Moving Up"

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Rafael Viñoly's School of Architecture Opens at CCNY


How about some afternoon starchitecture, you say? At your service, say we. Here we have the latest from Rafael Viñoly, specifically, the new School of Architecture at CCNY, which opens its doors today. Crucially, this isn't new construction; rather, it's a totally overhauled version of a glass-block building that was built as a library in the late 1950's. Viñoly's firm gut-renovated it, preserving just the structural elements. Then from there, things really got trippy.

The fully redone 118,000 square foot building will serve as classroom and office space, but there are plenty of other interesting touches, like, oh, a rooftop amphitheater. More, from the press materials:

The new structure is highlighted by its central atrium, which allows daylight to illuminate the building from the roof down to the ground floor. The atrium features an intersecting series of steel staircases and pedestrian bridges, facilitating circulation throughout the building and establishing connectivity and sightlines between floors. The striking walkway system promotes interactivity and spontaneous encounters among students and faculty. Additionally, partial mezzanine levels are inserted above the studio floors to provide space for faculty offices. These offices look over the open-plan design studios through interior glazing to a space along the building’s perimeter that maximizes daylight in the studio areas. The corridors on the studio levels are wide, double-height areas that accommodate lounges for informal discussion, while narrower balconies overlook these lounges and provide circulation on the office levels. In what has become a trademark of Rafael Viñoly Architects' institutional and educational projects, this layout promotes interaction and fluidity of movement through innovative design solutions.

The building’s exterior is clad in pre-cast concrete, with deep shelf-like openings that on installation will feature aluminum sun-shading louvers. Oriented vertically on the east and west facades, and horizontally on the south façade, the louvers are designed to balance outward views with maximum shading to reduce heat gain to the interiors. On the roof, an open-air amphitheater overhangs the atrium, with a full-height clerestory around three sides that admits natural light into the building. The amphitheater provides additional teaching and program space, with wide, unobstructed views to the south over Central Park and the skyline of Midtown Manhattan. This south-facing orientation also reduces direct sun exposure and thermal heat gain on the clerestory glass, even as the auditorium’s contoured underside creates a funnel to scoop natural light down into the atrium. On the building’s periphery, Landscape Architect Lee Weintraub’s design accentuates the main entrance, creating another accessible congregation point for students.

Via curbed.com

Bobby Berk Home on TLC's Moving Up



Check out Bobby Berk Home products on TLC's Moving Up episode 403. Look for the sexy Jane Bi-sectional from Gus Modern. This modern sofa was just what they needed to transform their home. Also, check out the Thomas Paul rugs we provided to warm up their family room and master bedroom.

Snuggle time just got easier with this wall mounted fireplace


Let romance fill the air and the sparks fly high as you cuddle by this amazing new fireplace. The Chimo Large Wave Fireplace by Blomus is the perfect touch to keep your love burning strong all winter long. No chimney or natural gas line is required and the fireplace is vent-less and odorless. It simply mounts to the wall like a picture frame. The flame size is adjustable allowing you to set the proper mood.

Wednesday, September 9, 2009

The Hero 365 RC-1 Rain Collector | Via Apartment Therapy Re-Nest


Remember this vintage-looking Drying Rack from Toronto-based company Hero? Well, they also have a beautiful and functional Rain Collector that holds up to 45 gallons of water — enough to water the garden, wash the car and maybe even a dog or two — all without relying on your local water supply...


The RC-1 comes flat-packed and is made from corrosion/UV resistant polyester powder-coated steel. Collect as much rain as you can in a special phthalate-free bladder that holds the water after it's been filtered for bugs and debris.
While it is certainly more expensive than your run-of-the-mill rain barrels, it's also infinitely more stylish than its clunky counterpart and would actually look pretty cool sitting out in the garden or up against the side of the house.
You can purchase the RC-1 from Bau Outdoors in the UK for £399.00 and in the US for $550 at Bobby Berk Home.

Melli Compact Lounge | At Cool Material | What Men Want


You'll come across as well-prepared in a dorky Doogie Howser sort of way when your date spots this box on your wall... which quickly gets replaced by a debonair James Bond level of resourcefulness when she sees what's inside. The Melli Compact Lounge, named for Tempelhof airport in Berlin gives you quick access to essential items that you may need in a pinch... not gauze and ointment like you might expect but something much more useful: cocktails and those little umbrellas. Includes bar tools, but unfortunately you have to provide the booze.

Tuesday, September 8, 2009

Dwellstudio Offers Premier Bedding, Accessories, and More



Dwellstudio is an interior design company that has made a name for itself with its beautifully simplistic sheets and bed coverings, its table linens, and their accessories for the home. However, there is much more to the basis of this design company than meets the eye, and there is much to know about the interior design business as a whole. Top design companies such as Dwellstudio know that there are many different decorating rules to abide by, but they also know that many times those rules are flexible and ever-changing, too.
If you are looking to transform the look of your living space, introducing modern textile design into the fabrics that are in your home is the best way to do it. There are literally thousands of designs and fabrics available that set the bar for designers to follow, and one of these is Dwellstudio. The company is committed to using the finest textiles and quality linens for every one of their products, and they seek out the best woods, plastics, and metals for their other product lines such as furniture.
Color combinations and different layouts are some of the most important factors when it comes to choosing linens and bedding. Fabric and material also play a large role, and one of the most popular materials to use as linens today is Egyptian cotton. Sheets that are woven from 100% Egyptian cotton are very soft, but very durable at the same time. Bedding that is reactive printed so that it keeps its saturated bright colors is used by Dwellstudio. For Egyptian cotton fabrics, it is recommended that the bedding be washed in the washing machine and taken out of the dryer when it is still just a bit damp. Placing them on the bed to finish drying will help reduce wrinkles when it is dry, all without ever plugging in an iron.
This company has become well known for their bedding that is luxurious and simple, yet lavishly ornate in its own naturistic way. Contemporary stripes, bold solids, large geometric designs, and more are used to state a simple yet strong statement about style. What is really great about the company is that they make bed linens and products for infants and children as well as for adults. Their crib bedding, toddler bedding, and child bedding is the ultimate in quality and comfort and is soothing to children as well. Attractive designs and soil-resistant materials make all the difference that separates Dwellstudio products from others that are out there on the market.

The Versatility of Bar Stools in San Diego Homes


Just about everyone knows that bar stools are not just for the bars and taverns anymore. These high seats have found their way into the homes of comfort lovers everywhere. The invasion began in basements with the lucky homeowners who had their own basement bars. Today, you can find bar stools in every room of the house, from bedrooms to living rooms to dining rooms, too.
There are several heights, styles, colors, models, and shapes available for bar stools, ranging from those that are four feet high down to those that more often resemble step stools. They are very popular for a lot of reasons, mainly because they are stylish and they do not take up a lot of room. You’ll need to think about how many stools you need for whichever room they will be in. Are you going to use them at a breakfast bar in your kitchen? You probably only need two, three, or four stools. Do you have a pub height dining table that you need chairs for? Depending on the size of the table, you’ll need four, six, or eight bar stools.
Be careful when choosing the height of the stools. Be sure that when a chair box states that the stool is 29” high that you know if it is 29” to the seat or 29” to the top of the back of the stool. If you have driven an hour and a half to your favorite store to buy eight bar stools that are 29” tall and you go home to find that they do not fit under your table, you have a big (and expensive) problem on your hands.
You’ll also need to decide what kind of materials you are going to want your stools to be made out of; there are those that are completely wooden, those that have metal frames that have a retro look, those that are a combination, and some that are even plastic. You also need to decide if you want yours to have a back on them or not; will the seat be circular or some other shape? Be sure that the stools you choose are going to be comfortable for people to reach the counter, bar, or table with.
Another important consideration is that you want your bar stools to fit in with the décor of the rest of the room. If you have an oak table you probably will not want metal barstools with red leather seats. Many people really like this feature because it facilitates getting in and out from underneath counters or tables. While these swivel bar stools can run more expensive than their non-swivel counterparts, many people feel that the extra cost is nothing compared to the ease and comfort that they get from that little bit of swivel to help them out after they have stuffed themselves with Thanksgiving dinner!

The Razzle Dazzle for your Home Office Furniture


If you work from home in an office setting you certainly know and appreciate the value of good home office furniture. It can really be tricky finding the right furnishings for a home office because you not only want desks, chairs, and accessories that are comfortable to work at for hours every day, but you also need furniture that is as beautiful and as stylish as the rest of your home is, if not more so.
Even though a home office is a separate entity of the house, it still needs to be comfortable and fashionable. Sitting for hours every day at a desk requires a supportive chair and a desk that is at the right height for you. Since your home office is a part of your home, you also want furniture and accessories that compliment your style. This is especially important because you want to feel as comfortable as possible when you have to sit for hours every day in your home, but you also want to love the things that you have to look at for hours, too!
You may want to consider going with an ergonomic design for your desk chair. They are not only very good for the back and body but they also look great and fit right in to the contemporary modern design of many modern homes today. You certainly don’t want to be stuck in a chair for hours that looks good but is terribly uncomfortable, and you don’t want to be stuck in one that is comfortable but looks terrible. Take your time and be sure to shop around before you finally decide on a chair. Just because you are working at home doesn’t mean that you don’t deserve superior office furniture
Of course, when shopping for office furniture, you’ll need a desk to go with that chair. Desks these days range anywhere from big, bulky, wooden pieces to glass tables that are used as desks. Think considerably on whether or not you would benefit from having drawers or not, because they do come in handy if for no other reason than to hide things in. Try some desks out and make sure that they stand at a comfortable height for you. Be sure that the desk not only matches the style and décor of your home but that it also fits with the look of the new chair that you have just bought, too.
Finally we come to accessories for your home office. Don’t skimp on the decorative items such as cute little pen holders, picture frames, or wall hangings, because if you don’t love your home office you’ll make yourself suffer! In addition to the fun stuff, make sure that you have plenty of items handy for making your job at home easier and to keep you more organized. Once you have found everything you need for your home office, you’ll not only love your home but you’ll love your work again, too!

Wednesday, August 26, 2009

A little bedtime bliss is all the rage for summer and fall


Your bedroom experience should always be blissful. The Amelie Green Duvet Set by Blissliving home is among several collections that will do just that. Lofty aspirations scale high in graphic treetop silhouettes layered in tonal greens over a gradated background in fresh green cloud-soft cotton sateen. Matching pillow shams suggest a canopy of cascading branches. And should you prefer a look that's a little more grounded, the entire set reverses to solid sage green. This collection adds just the right relaxing touch for either summer or spring.

Be sure to look at the Anis Yellow, Amanda Green, Ayanna, Harajuku, Kennedy, Ashley Gray, Amanda Purple, Mallory Colbalt, Corina, West Lake, Audrey, Amelie, Icelandic Dream, Pia, Mallory Aqua, Kew, and Saville duvet sets by Blisshome Living.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Who said "Blocks" are just for kids?


The 3 Block Stools/Cubes by Kalon Studios inspire the same enthusiasm that building blocks did for all of us as children. The versatility of form found in these blocks allows the user to find a variety of uses for a wide range of situations. Whether you require extra seating for a dinner party, a beautiful side table, a place to rest your feet or a playground for your cats – this set of 3 Nesting Stools is designed to adapt to your needs.

Kalon Studios artfully plays with archetypal forms including the circle, the line and the cube.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

The perfect modern accent to add texture and dimension you your living space



The Ricami Stool/Side Table by Arktura is the perfect accent to any living space. Its laser cut metal design reflects light and cast eye catching shadows that add just the right amount of texture to a simple space.

The Ricami Stool/Table is part of a comprehensive research study on the relationship between fashion and architecture. Ricami, the Italian name for embroidery, is a term that connotes the fusion of variegated figurations and ornaments through intricate and delicate connections. It involves notions of scale and transparency gradients. Its visual sensibility emerges from the fusion of digital design aesthetic and laser machine processes applied to a monolithic materiality.

GM's new Chevy Volt: A gas guzzler it ain't

A Chevy Volt Extended Range Electric Vehicle is displayed during a press confernce anouncing that the car will get an estimated 230 miles per gallon in city driving August 11, 2009 in Warren, Michigan. The announcement was made during a public webcast Henderson held for the media and consumers to update them on the "New GM.

General Motors said Tuesday its Chevrolet Volt electric car could get 230 miles per gallon in city driving, making it the first American vehicle to achieve triple-digit fuel economy if that figure is confirmed by federal regulators. A glance:

How does it work? The Volt is powered by an electric motor and a battery pack with a 40-mile range. After that, an internal combustion engine kicks in to generate electricity for a total range of 300 miles.

How will it be recharged? A standard home outlet will do the job. Charging the battery pack takes eight hours with a 120-volt outlet, three hours with a 240-volt outlet.

When will it be available? Late 2010. But two critical areas — battery life and the electronic switching between battery and engine power — still are being refined.

How much will it cost? About $40,000. But the price is expected to drop, and up to $7,500 in tax credits are available.

Curbed: FiDi/Chinatown/LES Waterfront Ready For Its Makeover


[Remade vision for Pier 35 on the Lower East Side. Courtesy SHoP]
Downtown, it's groundbreaking day for a new portion of the East River Waterfront that's ready for its makeover. What that means for us: hot renderings (above) from those genius architects at SHoP of a distant future in which a now totally inaccessible waterfront transforms into a home for yachts, happy children, and bikinis.
The first phase of the project centers on the two-mile stretch from the Battery Maritime Building near the tip of Manhattan to Pier 35 at the edge of the Lower East Side and is focused on improving the existing esplanade. But they're also planning on building a tripped-out new Pier 15 at Maiden Lane (to replace the Pier 15 demolished earlier this decade), and renovating Pier 35 into "an innovative habitat restoration park," which, per the renderings, looks pretty damn awesome. Oh, and there will be waterfront steps at select locations, "to provide visitors the opportunity to get closer to the water’s edge." Good times.
[The brand new Pier 15 down in the FiDi. Courtesy SHoP]

Here's a more detailed rundown from the press materials:
The first phase of the project will improve the existing esplanade from the Battery Maritime Building to Pier 35 to safely accommodate both pedestrians and cyclists. It will feature new plantings, seating and lighting, a dedicated bikeway and visitor-friendly designs.
The esplanade between the Battery Maritime Building and Old Slip will be extended out over the water, allowing for safe passage along a widened sidewalk and bikeway. Pier 15 at Maiden Lane, which was demolished in 2001, will be reconstructed as a two-level pier reminiscent of the two-level piers that used to line the East River in the late 19th century. It will feature maritime uses on the lower level with boat docking facilities on three sides and a maritime educational component. The upper level will feature lawns and seating for passive recreation. Pier 35 at Rutgers Slip will be renovated and open to the public to provide much-needed landscaped space along the waterfront. Pier 35 will also an innovative habitat restoration park, funded by a grant from the New York State Department of State Division of Coastal Resources, which will recreate the native plants and wildlife of the East River. Waterfront steps will be created at Wall Street, Pike Slip, and Rutgers Slip to provide visitors the opportunity to get closer to the water’s edge...
The second phase of the plan calls for the construction of the Battery Maritime Plaza, conversion of Pier 42 at Montgomery Street to public use as an urban beach and boat launch, and completion of the widening of the esplanade from Peck Slip to Pike Slip. When complete, the East River Esplanade will be a critical link in the continuation of the Manhattan Greenway.
We're hoping to chat SHoP up about all this shortly, so if you've got any questions, drop 'em in the comments.

Tuesday, August 18, 2009

Nurse away the blues with a drink from this home bar



Sometimes a stiff drink at home is just what the doctor has ordered. The Melli Compact Lounge by Urbancase is slim, wall mounted and provides storage for your favorite elixir. Bar tools are included but the liquor is not. The laminate work surface is easy to clean and great to look at. In case you need a nightcap...the soft open hinges prevent the door from slamming shut, so as not to disturb anyone else in the home that may be sleeping.

Not your mothers broom and dustpan



Former fashion industry executives Maria Barnes and Raili Clasen, took a trip south of the border last year and found themselves exploring the shelves of a dusty old hardware store pulling down brightly colored buckets and obsessing over the neon bristled brooms.
A couple of margaritas later, they gave birth to the concept of taking mundane household items and giving them a little personality (which they also gained after a couple of drinks)
Best friends from college, Maria and Raili, leveraging their 30 years of combined experience set out to turn blah into rah....
Giving a nostalgic not to the Brady Bunch's witty housekeeper, Alice Supply Co. has even the domestically challenged sweeping and plunging. Alice has injected a fashionable dose of color and humor into the bleached-out abyss of household cleaning supplies, and hopefully making chores a little less laborious.

Let There Be (Flash)Light


SWITCH: We know you’re very attached to that yellow-and-black plastic monstrosity from Home Depot, but this beechwood flashlight designed by Jonas Damon for Areaware is just as powerful, way more eco-friendly, and powers with an energy-efficient LED bulb. Bonus: Its minimalist aesthetic means you can display it as an object, not bury it in the depths of your kitchen drawer (which sucks in a blackout). Available at Bobby Berk Home, 59 Crosby Street near Spring Street ; 646-233-3438.

Kalon Studios Named as One of the Top 100 Eco Designs in the World in Time Magazine's "Green Design 100" Issue



















This is the first time TIME Magazine Style & Design has singled out a DESIGN 100 focused entirely on the top 100 best and brightest in environmentally conscious design from around the globe.

"The Green Design 100 - Sustainable Luxury - Call it responsibility or accountability. Or simple popular demand. The rarefied world of design is embracing the environment as never before. Top architects are implementing revolutionary methods. Fashion and furniture mainstays are manufacturing products using sustainable materials. And luxury empires are establishing credos on issues their customers are still waking up to. Behind the scenes, trailblazing executives are taking big risks to make it all happen — beautifully."

"Kalon Studios is named after the Greek word meaning beautiful and noble. Fittingly, this L.A.-based company strives for a near Platonic ideal in both design and production. The bamboo crib, like Kalon Studios pieces for adults, is 100% sustainable, creating not a stitch of wasted material, energy or labor."

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Sophisticated and chic furnishings: SoHo: Bobby Berk Home, Manhattan







Tanvier Lee
Manhattan Interior Design Examiner


Neighborhood: SoHo

59 Crosby Street (btw. Broome & Spring Street)

Pricing: $$-$$$

What can we say about Bobby Berk Home other than fabulous!

Bobby Berk Home is a quaint showroom based in SoHo that offers hand selected items from around the world. Whether you have a quiet or eccentric style, Bobby Berk Home offers items to satisfy all styles.

What makes BBH unique is their representation of urban sophistication. Many of their products are fresh and innovative that will surely redefine your space. Functioning as a one stop shop, their showroom features an assortment of products including: eco friendly decor, furniture, accessories, pet decor, lighting, and bedding.

Bobby Berk Home presents New York City modern living through fine furniture and home accessories. With customizable features and an eye for minimal aesthetic, no home will look drab after incorporating their decor.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

Monday, August 10, 2009

Gus Furniture: Modern Simplicity at its Best

Inspired by simple forms and quality craftsmanship, Gus furniture is modern furnishings at the very pinnacle of its design. Simple, durable construction and durable, luxurious designs are at the center of every piece that the company creates. Gus furniture is already well known for its accent pieces, modern furnishings, and its accessories, and the result of every idea that the team has is a beautiful mix of beauty and industry. Practicality and aesthetics reign supreme, and following is just a small sample of the work that this company does.

The Delano XL Sofa incorporates soft, plush tufted leather with a sturdy and strong frame of stainless steel. This sofa is overly-sized in order to comfortably seat three people, at least. There are three shades that the sofa is available in- rich espresso, fresh white, and classic black. These colors are available to complement any modern home décor, and also is fantastic when paired with its Delano lounge chair and other accessories by Gus.


Next is the Drake coffee table in white lacquer. Those who consider themselves minimalists will be enthralled with the clean and simple design of the piece. The open frame is stainless steel, which provides impeccable stability, and the gleaming white table top brings the entire piece into the very definition of modernism. Many use the table along with the white lacquer pawn stool to accentuate living room furnishings such as sofas, chairs, and other accessories that are also from Gus furniture. In addition to highlighting white furniture, the table also offers a striking contrast to rooms when it is used along with black furniture as well.

What modern living space would be complete without lighting? The frosted hanging light by Gus furniture is one that will demand attention from everyone upon entering the room. Sleek, sharp angles and clean lines define modern lighting at its best. This design is rectangular in shape and houses two bulbs. The shade is a clear acrylic one, and is suspended from two cables that attach to a stainless steel ceiling plate. There is eight feet of electrical cord that is included for easy hanging, convenient wiring, and quick set-up. The ceiling plate mounts quickly and easily to the electrical source so that giving a room an entirely new ambiance is a breeze. These are just three examples of some of the finest examples of modern furnishings and accessories that Gus Modern furniture is all about, so for more products you can visit the Bobby Berk website online.

Quality Modern Baby Furniture: The Best for your Little One


Shopping for modern baby furniture is one of the most fun, most fulfilling, and most exciting aspects of preparing for the arrival of a little one. The experience of making ready for the small bundle of joy is one that will be remembered always, and there are many things that need to be taken into consideration to ensure that the products that are bought are soothing, comforting, of good quality, and are attractive not only to the baby, but also to the décor of the home and to the tastes of the family as well.
Providing comfort to a child is super important, and quality modern baby furniture leaves no room for compromising. Once colors are decided on and walls have been painted, many parents then turn to choosing a theme for the décor. They may already have something in particular in mind, or they may turn to their favorite designer collections for inspiration. Styles for infant nurseries have changed dramatically from one generation to the next, and the look of today demands a contemporary décor that is uncluttered, simple, stylish, and still every bit as adorable and fashionable as ever.
There are many styles of cribs that are available to those who are shopping for modern baby furniture, and they range from traditional side-lowering rectangular cribs to oval-shaped ones to those that “grow” with the child. Multiple features and multiple functions ensure that the crib will be one piece of furniture that will be useful for many years.
Today, gliders and ergonomically designed chairs have replaced the traditional rocking chairs that used to be a staple in every nursery corner, and these can also be found in many different styles. Changing tables seemed to have gone to the wayside for several years, but are now back and better than ever. Many of them, to save room in nurseries, are attached to portable cribs, play yards, and standard cribs and are available in everything from bamboo to solid wood and other materials as well.
One of the biggest trends in modern baby furniture is to use materials that have been recycled or are organic. They are not treated before or after production with harmful chemicals or toxins, and any dyes that are used are also natural. Parents realize the potentially harmful effects that these chemicals may cause with their infants, and more than ever before are specifically searching for products that are certified to be all-natural. With so many new and exciting products on the horizon for modern baby furniture, it is no wonder that so many shoppers have the time of their lives shopping for them.

Dwellstudio Bed Linens: Primo Modern Design for Today’s Style


Dwellstudio bed linens are some of the best-selling, most in-demand bedding ensembles and pieces that this year has seen. There are several reasons to attest to the company’s popularity, and for those who are already fans of Dwellstudio bed linens, you’ll be happy to know that the company also designs many other things as well, including clothing, baby bedding, home furnishings, accessories, and more.
Making bedrooms around the globe bright, bold, simple, and attractive is the job of the company, and there are hundreds of stores around the globe that carry an inventory of their designs and products. Everyone can find something that the company has given birth to that they love! There are colors, designs, and styles that fit every décor, every room, and every taste- even for the most discerning home decorator.
The company and the Dwellstudio bed linens have been featured on dozens of fashion magazines lately, including House & Garden, House Beautiful, Real Simple Magazine, Lucky Magazine, and many more. Not only that, but Dwellstudio bed linens were even featured and used on the set of the smash hit TV show, “The Apprentice”. Everything that a shopper could be looking for to go in the bedroom can be found with a Dwell label on it, from fitted sheets to accent pillows to bumpers and crib pads for infants and everything in between. Luxurious Egyptian cotton is used, with thread counts of at least 210, and the fitted sheets from the studio are not the kind with shallow corners that will pop off of mattresses every night. In contrast, the company has made sure that the pockets are extra deep and are in fact deep enough to fit right over mattresses that are up to 16 inches thick.
Some of the most popular Dwellstudio bed linens are those that are in the colors of light blue, leaf green, and chocolate. Reactive dyes are always used so that the vibrancy of colors lasts through tons of washings. There are some collections that the company is proud to claim that are most popular, and these include Thin Stripe, Dots, Circles, and the Circles in Square collections as well. Mixing and matching the solids with their vibrant prints is also hot, and the possibilities are absolutely endless, which also makes the bedding from the company personalized to fit each and every décor imaginable. Dwellstudio bed linens are the hottest coverings for beds today, and the great news is that the company continues to design amazing collections as well.

Modern Bedding: Top Designers of 2009


The quality of the modern bedding that you choose to sleep on can affect more than just the comfort that you feel when you first crawl into bed. Many people underestimate the importance of their bed and the linens that they dress it with, and unfortunately it is the same number of people that really cannot afford to take that comfort for granted. We spend at least one quarter of our lives in bed, which means that a bigger piece of our lives are spent tucked into the sheets and blankets that we buy than almost anywhere else.
Consumers deserve a wide selection of modern bedding options, and different designs, looks, fashions, and styles can be found at all kinds of stores in many different places. By far, the most popular avenue for shopping is the Internet. Consumers can shop through the inventory of stores that are physically located on the other side of the country, the other side of the continent, and on the other side of the globe for that matter as easily as it is to brew a fresh cup of coffee and sit down.
When discerning customers shop for a bed, they are shopping for a good night’s sleep. When they are shopping for modern bedding, they are shopping for comfort, warmth, and style. When someone suffers often from not being able to be comfortable in their bed while they try to rest, they run the risk of suffering from kinks in the neck, sore backs, achy muscles, tossing and turning instead of sleeping, falling ill frequently, higher blood pressure, the inability to cope well with stress, and much more. It is for the reason of preventing these conditions that people need to give their shopping endeavors the time and the attention that they deserve.
There are many designers of today that are leading the way in modern bedding. To qualify as one of the best, comfort must never surrender to style, and quality cannot ever be compromised for any reason. Dwell Bedding is one of the companies that indeed has been around for a while and has really exploded onto the design scene. Their attention to detail and their commitment to quality and fashion has turned all eyes on the designers, and at this point the team leads the way in designing furnishings not only for the bedroom but also for every room in the house and for people as well. Their clothing lines follow suit with the popularity of their home furnishings as well. Other popular designers for modern bedding include Herman Miller, Inhabit, Amenity, DwellStudio, Blissliving Home, and more.

Your Online Modern Furniture Store

A modern furniture store should have all of the essential ingredients that are necessary to help those high end shoppers who are not only looking for great furnishings but are also looking for great deals. The single most popular place to purchase furnishings and accessories today is on the Internet, which may or may not come as a surprise to you.
Modern furniture is curious by its own definition- although it is contemporary, it is defined by the same smooth, clean lines that furnishings of the 1950s and 1960s displayed. Simplicity is king in the design of such pieces, and bold, solid colors rule. Patterns are limited and are not overly frilly, fancy, or cluttered. There is certainly no room for clutter in the design of today’s pieces, and the Internet provides the single largest marketplace for shopping for them. The marketplace, of course, is the entire world.
Thanks to the Internet, pieces can be browsed through, searched for, auctioned off, bought, sold, given away, and traded from one end of the earth to the other. Any modern furniture store that strives for success will have an online website that allows customers to shop for, pay for, and have delivered furnishings and accessories for their home, no matter how big or how small. The convenience that online shopping provides cannot be beat by any traditional brick-and-mortar store, especially when a store has one showroom in one place on the planet. More than the locals are able to enjoy access to their inventory.
There are some discerning shoppers that stick with a few favorite modern furniture stores on the Internet, but there are also plenty more that know what they are looking for with no clue where to find it. This is where the beauty of search engines comes in. Search engines such as Yahoo, Google, and Bing provide the gateway that links shoppers with those websites that carry products that match what consumers are searching for.
All that is required for a shopper to find that modern furniture store of his or her dreams is to type key terms into the search box on the pages of those search engines. Examples might be “contemporary coffee table” or “modern chaise lounger” and they are instantly given links to websites that will have those very items. Browsing through inventory in the convenience of the consumer’s home is far superior to having to travel long distances or battling traffic and spending hours in a traditional store.
The best part about shopping online, especially for the large household items, is that everything can indeed be delivered right to the customer’s home. An entire room can easily be transformed by shopping at modern furniture stores online.

Contemporary Powerhouse One Man Show: Jefdesigns


Jefdesigns is a design studio that operates as a one-man business out of Portland, Oregon. Joe Futschik is the owner and designer who turns out designs that are simple, bold, and modern. Some of his most popular works are hand-made lamps, his handbags, and his light box paintings, but that isn’t all that this one-man design star is known for: he has much more to offer.
Futschik has demonstrated that he relies on his instincts in the creation of his work, and apparently that instinct is a good one. He pursues anything that serves as inspiration to him, which has resulted in an incredibly unique and diverse collection of furnishings and accessories that are as unique as he himself is. Although he listens to his inner designing voice for the creation of his pieces, he also makes sure that the designs are complementary to each other by related attention to light, form design, and color. The products, pieces, and designs are sold in stores everywhere across the country and also on the Internet as well.
The works of Jefdesigns can be seen in many different venues and establishments from one end of the country to the other, including many hotels, restaurants, private residences, corporations, business offices, bars and clubs, and others too. In fact, his influence does not end at the U.S. borders. His products have been commissioned for many projects all over the globe. He is always interested in teaming up with others in his line of work, and that includes many different aspects of his career. Some of the different categories that the designer is best known for are his dishes, pillows, plates, kitchen designs, and designs that are suitable for any part of the house. Working closely with architects and other professionals in related fields gives this designer success time and time again with any avenue he is asked to explore.
Jefdesigns has proven that simple is successful, and the loud, busy, and cluttered patterns and decorative looks of yesterday have no place in the modern home today. This is something that Futschik is already world-renowned for not only avoiding, but also for providing soothing and contemporary remedies to replace those out-of-date styles of yesteryear.

Spotlight on Top Designs: Gus Modern


Gus Modern is one of those rare talented firms that remain inspired by simple forms, incredibly attractive looks, and superiority in craftsmanship. The simple yet durable construction of all of their pieces and their luxurious designs have created a reputation for the company that precedes it. Accent pieces, modern furnishings, furniture, and accessories are all specialties of Gus Modern, and the great news is that there is no sign of them slowing down their creative ingenuity any time soon.
Part of the modern simplicity of the company’s pieces is due to the colors that are used. Bold cherry reds, beautiful blues, soft whites, and classic black are some of their more popular ones, but there are also many patterns that are used that require many other colors as well. The construction of the pieces from Gus Modern is simple, following the contemporary rule of thumb that “less is more”. There are no unnecessary features or lavish flairs to clutter up the clean smoothness of any piece. Defining each and every curve and corner is what Gus Modern does best.
One of the most popular pieces of furniture that the company claims is the Delano XL Sofa. Soft tufted leather and a stainless steel frame are only two of the features of this couch that distinguish it from the works of other designers. Colors that it is available in include fresh white, classic black, and rich espresso. The fresh white sofa is complemented excellently by the Delano lounge chair, and although the coordinating white accessories are often used with the sofa, it is also offset very nicely by corresponding accessories in the classic black color.
Lighting is one of the most important (and most often neglected) aspects of interior design, but Gus Modern has not let this little aspect escape unnoticed. The Frosted Hanging Light is one that entails sleek angles and a clear acrylic shade that is beautiful and fashionable. It is a rectangular light with a stainless steel ceiling plate for easy installation and an 8-foot electrical cord for convenient wiring. Gus Modern is one of the highlighted design companies of 2009, and these furnishings are just a couple of the reasons why.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

Introducing Kalon Studios



Design for a Sustainable Culture

Los Angeles | Berlin

Based in Los Angeles, California and Berlin, Germany, Kalon Studios is a young design studio focused on contemporary form and innovative design.

Kalon Studios design focus is as much on quality of design as it is on method and process. All of our products are non-toxic, fully sustainable, and domestically produced in the United States. Each piece is handcrafted to order by traditional furniture makers in New England.

The ancient Greek concept of kalon meant beauty linked with moral worth and usefulness. For us this means making products that aren’t only beautiful in form but beautiful in concept as well. We believe that true beauty radiates from the whole but has its roots in the details and so from our hardware to our motifs, from our raw materials to our finishes we laboriously hand pick each element so that it too, alone, is kalon.

Friday, July 31, 2009

New York Magazine feature both in print and online. Check it out!


The more times we move in New York, the less we feel up to assembling yet another item of furniture from the eager DIY-ers at Ikea. The assembly-free Timber Table by Gus Modern is made of clear acrylic and etched to resemble wood grain, offering a playful departure from the standard side table. It’s unusual without being showy or overly designed. And it measures just a foot across, making it compact enough to fit into space-cramped studios (or your "cozy" Manhattan bedroom).

Timber Table by Gus Modern, $235 at Bobby Berk Home or online.
By: Lauren Murrow

Friday, July 24, 2009

Vurv Design




Glenn Ross, SFU alumni, achieved a Masters degree in architecture from UBC in 2001. While studying architecture, Glenn’s interest in design found its focus in modern furniture.

This, coupled with a passion for building, emerged as Vûrv Design, a small company specializing in both the creation of custom modern furniture and residential design.
Glenn’s intention is to create warm, comfortable spaces within the context of the modern home. His furniture is influenced heavily by his background and training in architecture and strives toward the minimal, while at the same time retaining the warmth of handcrafted wood.

All their products are made in Canada, with the exception of the stainless steel bowls that come from India

Glenn lives in Coquitlam with his wife Cindy and his two daughters, Weijin and Jian.

WHAT IS FLUF?





They say that the devil is in the details. FLUF founders, Nathalie Butterfield and Terra Kushner, say it is equally true for style, great design and originality. In the summer of 2005, their shared vision to elevate one of the unsung details of the home, the lowly pillow, led them to create FLUF.

Since its inception, FLUF has fought to dust off the pillow’s reputation as your couch’s freeloader, and show the world what it is made of. The right pillow owns the room.

They made pillows for every type of interior from über-modern, stark minimalism to retro 80s post-punk angst, to lush velvety Oscar Wilde interiors, to relaxed country livin’, to shabby urban chic. Whatever their mood, whatever their style, people got it and joined the revolution.

The more modern pillows they made, the more they wanted to design their own fabric prints. There were a couple of reasons for this. First, their customers were always looking for fresh and original prints. Second, they were having trouble finding fabulous fabrics that were manufactured using sustainable materials and practices.

They launched their first fabric print, FLY, in the spring of 2007. FLUF’s fabrics are all hand-printed locally in small runs on chemical-free hemp and organic cotton, using water-based, biodegradable dyes.

Before starting FLUF, Nathalie Butterfield practiced law and Terra Kushner worked as a commercial designer.

Hero 365




Designing products that are as beautiful as they are useful, HERO is a Toronto based company founded in 2007 by Leo Corrales and Jenny Lemieux, who met during their post-graduate studies at the Domus Academy in Milan. The duo’s recently launched product line HERO 365, balances sustainability, aesthetics, durability, and function, re-inventing familiar objects as extraordinary products for everyday life.

HERO 365 takes a modern furniture approach to utilitarian objects, transforming them to fit nicely into the home environment. Their products are made in North America using recyclable materials, ship flat packed, and promote better habits in everyday living.

Monday, July 20, 2009

Bobby Berk Home in New York Magazine Shop O Matic


Check out items from Bobby Berk Home featured in New York Magazine's Shop-o-Matic. They shop so you don't have too.

Your Guide to DwellStudio Contemporary Modern Designs


DwellStudio has more than just an incredibly popular bedding collection, although it is their bedding that they are most popular for. The company is known for reducing decorative design to its minimal and essential elements. The contemporary style of today is all about smooth lines and simple accents, which the design studio has put themselves at the forefront of. The detail is not in the form of loud prints or tons of colors. Instead, the company makes a name for itself by using the best high-quality fabrics, beautiful woven linen trims, and the finest tailoring.
Not only that, but DwellStudio uses prints that are made with beautiful dyes that are low impact and fiber-reactive. The dyes that they use are formaldehyde-free and also meet all of the criteria for eco-friendly pigments. One of the most popular recent collections is the Botany Collection from 2008. Including Hedgerow and Thicket, this collection represents the company’s latest incarnation of their signature look and has been made to perfectly mix and match with many of their other bedding styles.
Dwell Pin Dot Home Furnishings is a design house whose philosophy draws from a global style that envelops both modern pop culture and timeless classic luxury. This modern collection includes Dwell Pin Dot, which is a contemporary adult bedding line, DwellBaby, which is baby bedding and accessories for the little ones, and Dwelltable Pin Dot, which is a collection of mix and match table linens.
DwellStudio is a design firm that was founded in 1999 by a lady by the name of Christiane Lemieux. This designer wanted to bring modern design in textile to the home, and she is the former design director for Portico New York. Portico New York is a luxury home furnishings company. She is also a former fashion designer for Isaac Mizrahi and the Gap. In 2000, Lemieux was joined by Jennifer Chused. Chused is a former managing editor of Room, which is a modern home furnishings catalog. She was also a fashion stylist for VH-1 Music Television as well.
The most popular way to describe the designs of DwellStudio seems to include the words “modern” and “classic”. The young company is already known around the world for their modern take on traditional design that surrounds and decorates many different rooms in the home, and with those designs and home fashion statements they make, DwellStudio shows no signs of slowing down.

Friday, July 17, 2009

Gus Modern Furniture Sale



Don't miss out on the perfect time to buy your Gus Modern Sofa, Sectional, Chair, or Ottoman right now during our Gus Modern Summer Sale. Take 20% off your Essentials Collection Upholstery order. In Store or Online.