GUEST POST: Jaime Derringer from Design Milk

This week, we have the distinct pleasure to post an article written by Jaime Derringer, the fabulously chic and always design-forward force behind Design Milk and Design Milk's sister site, Dog Milk. Jaime's blogs cover everything that is new and fresh in the design world, from art and architecture to fashion and technology. Today Jaime shares with us her selection from Bobby Berk Home of her favorite in modern black and white home decor: elegant and never dull.

Check back often for more blog posts from esteemed members of our design community- posted the first of every month!

 BLACK AND WHITE DONE RIGHT

Last month, Capree talked all about color. She's good at that, but me -- not so much. I tend to gravitate toward the black and white. Although I admit that I need to work on accepting color into my life, I don't think there's anything wrong with sticking with a monochromatic palette. Just because you like it plain doesn't mean it needs to be bland, boring, stark, cold or blah.  

Here's an example of how you can keep your minimal color scheme (or lack of color scheme) and make it interesting. First, wood isn't a no-no in a black and white room. It adds warmth, which is why I like the Misewell Conrad table. Another way you can escape the Black and White blahs is to add contrasting patterns such as graphic pieces like the Narvik II and Kalmar I pillows from Rouge du Rhin and a more traditional damask Thomas Paul rug. The most important part of decorating your home is that you inject your personality into it -- and keep it fun.

1. Misewell Conrad Table ($1,100)

2. Jack of Spades, Queen of Spades and King of Spades Wall Art ($48 Each)

3. Parrot Speakers ($1,600)

4. Jane Loft Bi-Sectional ($2,999)

5. Trudeau Chair in Leather ($1,799)

6. Damask Rug by Thomas Paul ($265 to $1,430)

7. Narvik II Pillow, Kalmar I Pillow ($99)

8. Rillo Vases - Round and Bottle ($79 Each) 

The Retro Revival

Norman Copenhagen BIKE

Pop culture has come a long way since the days of Mary Tyler Moore and tie-dye shirts. Yet in spite of how far we've gone, there is something interesting about the world predating legwarmers and Members Only jackets. Though we can't travel back in time, we do have some nostalgic selections from our collection that will give you that warm and fuzzy feeling on the inside.

Sagaform has an interesting series of wares for the kitchen with a retro motif that's reminiscent of the 50's. Check out their Retro Teacup and Saucer ($17) and matching Teapot ($40), or Retro Side Plate ($12). As long as we're in this time period, take a peek at the Magno Medium Radio ($270) by Singgih Kartono. Anyone looking to go retro in the bedroom will be delighted to have DwellStudio's Silhouette Cocoa Duvet Set ($40 - $170), which bears a 60's decorative styling pattern. Kids can share in the retro trip with their Dots Chocolate Duvet Set ($30 - $166). The simple single-color Caravan Dresser ($1,495) by Kalon Studios is also a nice throwback to funkier days.

It's been said before but Alice Supply Co. is a hallmark of 70's culture. They are especially proud of their Striped Toilet Plunger ($22), whose bright and colorful design captures the energy of that time in the world. They also have an equally impressive Striped Mat ($32), as well as a myriad of housecleaning supplies. For more retro styling, stop by our website!

Have Pot, Will Cook

Thomas Paul Sea Life Coaster Set

There is nothing more euphoric than stepping foot into the breathtaking kitchen of your dreams, and a big step to getting there is finding the right cookware and accessories. Today we have some eye-catching selections from our Kitchen and Dining collection that will accent your cooking space with class and style.

Normann Copenhagen is the cornerstone of modern metal when it comes to kitchenwares. Their Familia series of pots and pans ($225 - $425) and Normann Knives ($81 - $120) look sleek in any cooking environment. Their Normann Cutlery ($26 - $120) is a curious contrast from their knives in terms of aesthetic form, but their presence in the dining room is equally impressive.

Sagaform is especially prominent in the kitchen with their wide selection of wares. Their Edge Mortar ($50) is a fun accessory for the hardcore cook who likes to grind their own herbs and spices. Use the Hold Cookpage Page Holder ($30) for those books that just won't stay open. Their Bamboo Serving and Cutting Board ($30) makes a great display piece, though the Lazy Susan ($35) is there if you prefer something a little simpler.

Design House Stockholm has an outstanding collection of modern glassware. The Timo Glass 4-Pack ($32) looks suave and can hold both hot and cold drinks. The Fia Carafe ($69) is an eye-popping work of art in itself, as is their Rondo Small Jug ($26). For wine connoisseurs looking for something a little more traditional, the Globe Glass Set of 4 ($50 - $60) retains the simple but elegant form of the classic drinking glass.

From the mind of Thomas Paul comes a line of fanciful plates whose classical designs are perfect for those looking for a more traditional feel to their home. The Sea Life ($32) and Portland Dessert Plate Sets ($32) feature a different color for each plate in the set. The Scrimshaw Dinner Plate Set ($40) is fitting for anyone who has a soft spot for the sea. The Hong Kong Dinner Plate Set ($28) is reminiscent of the blue and white ceramics of old Kowloon, and is an excellent choice for people looking for something exotic.

That's only the tip of the iceberg. Stop by our website to check out our full lineup of wares!

And Everything In Its Place

Omni+ Prism in Green

Too much stuff lying around the house? Don't like that toaster you got for Christmas? Fear not, for we've got the remedy. Today we present to you storage solutions for just about anything and everything in your home, whether it be your book and movie collections or your kids' toys. Check it out!

Eastvold's playful nature is present in their kid-friendly Toy Box ($377) and Art Box ($377). Adults and big kids will find that same playfulness in their Cube ($690), which will make any ordinary wall far from ordinary.

Omni+ has a great lineup of media centers that combine sensibility with style. Their Prism ($499) features a trapezoidal shape unique to its form, and it comes in three fashionable flavors. The Link series ($99 - $699) offer a great level of flexibility by allowing you to rearrange compartments as needed. Their Shadow series ($399) is perfect for anyone looking for a simple and open design.

temahome enjoys playing with space and form in their work, and both are wonderfully presented in their Crest Medium High Unit ($1,175) and Shell Rotative Shelf Unit ($675). Both allow for a 360 exhibition of your books and collectibles.

Lot 61 is there to make sure that your wine and bottle collection has a place to stay. Their Up Bar ($1,900) is great for smaller collections, and for the truly hardcore: the Wine Armorie ($1,850)!

For more storage solutions, head over to our website!

May Flowers Not Guaranteed

Kontextür Moondance Shades of Gold Shower Curtain

When it comes to home decor, so much focus is placed on furniture, dining, and bedding that the bathroom seldom gets the attention it so deserves. This week, give your bathroom some love. Add a touch of style with some great entries from our modern collection of bathroom linens, shower curtains, and whatnot.

Evolve stands at the top of the ladder when it comes to shower heads. The Roadrunner ($39.95) --designed to be eco-friendly, easy on the water bill, and elegant in form-- is one of several in their collection that uses their integrated ShowerStart technology. The Panda ($59.95) model is especially a great choice for those who like the natural feel of rainfall.

Kontextür will amaze you with their collection of eye-catching shower curtains for the 21st century. Their Happiness Silver Petals design ($180) is a fine fusion of elegance, beauty, and modernity. If you prefer a more classical flavor, then you will love Blissliving Home's London Shower Curtain ($125). Anyone with an eye for contemporary eye-popping colors will be delighted to have DwellStudio's Transportation Multi Shower Curtain ($66).

Once you're clean, you can dry off in style: we have quite a wide variety of styles when it comes to bath towels. Organic enthusiasts will go wild for Joel Fitzpatrick's Kind Towels ($13 - $95) or LOOP organic's Turkish Towels ($10 - $62). Like the feeling of soft silk on your skin? Kumi Kookoon answers the call with their Silk Bath Towels ($25 - $135). Last but not least, Normann Copenhagen's Tile Towels ($101 - $267) are the perfect choice for people who have a fondness for pure simplicity.

Seeing Red

Design House Stockholm Step in Red

Red is an amazing color: it is a symbol of energy, love, life, and passion... all the right elements for an eye-catching home. Here are some fun highlights from our collection that will add some excitement your living space with this season's hottest color.

Blissliving Home features a vibrant red Post Box Pillow ($85) from their London collection that will stand out in any room. Representing France is Rouge du Rhin and their Sundsvall Red in White Linen ($125). Go further east and you will find Bholu, whose handcrafted Dharti Pillow in Red and Cream ($136) is a proud product of India.

Looking for seating? The Chair One Cement ($886) by Magis is an elegant fusion of function and form, as is Linvin's fab-as-always Queen of Love in Red Passion ($895). John Beck Steel delivers pure simplicity in the form of the Solid Bench ($1,200).

Those looking for decor will be intrigued by the vibrancy in the 1951 ($72) and Lotus ($72) Wall Arts by Inhabit Living. Blissliving Home's Buddha Head Red Candle ($45) will add warmth and coziness to any room.

The bright minds behind Design House Stockholm do a fun take on modern design with the Step Ladder ($295) and Arrow Hanger ($40), as does Magis and their Poppins Umbrella Stand ($168). No dinner table is complete without Droog's Red Revisited Bowls and Plates Set ($408). For more red, hop over to our website!

A Clean Sweep with Alice

Alice Supply Co.

March is finally here, which means spring is just around the corner. It also means that it's time to get ready to get your spring cleaning done. Thankfully, sweeping floors and dusting shelves doesn't have to be a drab. Alice Supply Co. has a funky selection of cleaning supplies that will make doing chores a little more fun.

Brush off the last of the winter blues with their Striped Dustpan and Brush Set ($40), which features vibrant colors that are totally groovy. Also comes in Woodgrain ($40) for those who prefer an old country aesthetic, Camo for people who like to hide in their backyards ($40), and just Green ($40) or Orange ($40) for those looking for a contemporary springtime flair. Need something with a little more reach? Go with a full 60" corn broom, available in Striped ($26) and Camo ($26).

Rule the world with the black-and-white Nautical Plunger ($22), also available in Striped ($22) and Camo ($22). Finally, complete the set with a Striped Bucket ($36)!

Guest Post: CAPREE KIMBALL from My Adventure is Your Advantage

This week, we have the distinct pleasure to post an article written by Capree Kimball, blogger extraordinaire and owner of My Adventure is Your Advantage. Capree's blog about her daily adventures in modern design is full of passion and optimism- the bright side of Modernism! Today Capree shares with us her thoughts on the emerging color trends for 2011.

Check back often for more blog posts from esteemed members of our design community- posted the first of every month. 

TOP COLOR TRENDS FOR 2011

Pantone's color of the year, Honeysuckle, has been met with mixed feelings across the design realm.  While I'm still on the fence about it when it comes to using this bold, pink hue in my home, there's no denying it has inspired the top palettes and color trends for 2011.  So, let's see how this all trickles down, shall we?

 

Better Homes & Gardens recently released a collection of designer-curated palettes for the new year that have a definite late-80s vibe.  Grey mixed with pink, melon and citrus-y green, plum and cream... all freshly updated for 2011!  The Honeysuckle equivalent here is Benjamin Moore's Florida Pink (think plastic flamingos and/or sunburned retirees).  It's big and bold... and here to stay.

Last week, it was heard through the wire that Pantone announced the fashion color report for Fall 2011: rich corals, peacock blues, tempered nougat, and icy silvers all team up with, you guessed it, Honeysuckle.  The Fall Fashion Report is released after a survey of all the designs coming out of New York Fashion Week, a good indicator of what the hot colors for home decor will be in the next year or two.

So, how do you bring it all home?  Sit back, relax, and soak in the following roundup of furniture and accessories that you can add to your decor now, and ride out the new color trends in style:

 

1. Soma Basso & Brooke Collection Wallpaper - $60 / roll

2. Geo Birdhouse by Areaware - $95
3. Oxford Rose Pillow by Blissliving - $75
4. Blue Lockwood Chair by Misewell - $365
5. Rochelle Sofa by Gus Modern - $1999
6. Parrot Speakers in Kiwi by Philippe Starck - $1600
7. La Couronne Pendant Light by Artecnica - $139
8. Tetra 3 Six-Drawer Low Cabinet by notNeutral - $2199
9. POD Planters by Pad Outdoor - $164 - $174

10. Coral Woven Rug by Thomas Paul - $150 - $800
11. Chair One in Anthra by Magis - $868
12. Color BLock Pillows in Pink by Balanced Design - $138
13. Zooey Mini Chandelier in Yellow by Perch! - $480
14. Hanging Planter in Mustard by Wallter - $72
15. Green Prism Media Console by Omni+ - $499
16. Faro Rug by Chandra Rugs - $79 - $1099
17. Morris Pillow by Balanced Design - $140
18. Tate Rose Throw by Blissliving - $110
19. Campy Planters by Perch! - $76

Right Under Your Feet

Nimboo Rug in Sage and Cream

 Rugs are a beautiful thing. Nothing adds charm, warmth, and style to a room quite like a rug, and with Spring Cleaning season just over the horizon, now is a great time to start looking for a lavishing new modern rug. That's where we come in: we have some fun highlights from our collection that are alluring to the eyes and soft on the toes!

Chandra Rugs' Dharma 7536 ($79) or the Dharma 7531 ($79) is perfect for anyone looking for an exotic flair. notNeutral's Seasons Rug ($240) exudes excitement and energy with its bright colors and playful designs. The simplicity in Bholu's Nimboo Rug ($1,100) adds a touch of serene grace to any room, and is available in red, orange, and other warm colors. Thomas Paul's Love Birds ($265) features a design whose unique blend of historical art styles will appeal to anyone with an artsy mindset. Pop art enthusiasts will love Twinkle Living's Glamour Girl Mat ($167) or Spin Rug ($167). Anyone with a soft spot for floral designs will fall for Amy Butler's Modern Love Rug ($108) or the Caracas Rug ($108). Finally, Design House Stockholm features the Bjork Rug ($250), a perfect selection for anyone looking for blissful simplicity at its best.

Drinks, Laughs, and Dan Golden: All The Makings of a Good Time

Dan Golden's Party @ The SoHo Showroom, 02.17.11

Last week, Dan Golden hosted a party at our SoHo showroom to commemorate the unveiling of his latest NEW AGE Rug Collection, and it was a great success! Guests got to meet the man himself, and laughs were shared as he gave a personal tour of his masterpieces. Everyone had a great time, and  a part of us wants to find excuses to host such parties again in the future. You can find Dan Golden's Cartoon Pillow Collection featuring his Crossroads pillow ($99)-- enjoy the photos and thanks for coming!

 Dan Golden's Morphine Rug. Find the matching Morphine Pillow ($99) at BobbyBerkHome.com!

Modern Representation: Launched!

Modern Representation, LLC

My new distribution company has successfully launched! Modern Representation specializes in luxurious home furnishings with a modern touch. Explore the elegant Parisian aesthetic of Rouge du Rhin, or the nostalgic flair of Alice Supply Co. Revel in the craftsmanship of Bholu, or the the brilliant designs of Munkii.

Modern Representation's mission is to bring fresh, modern brands to the US Market. We're proud to be representing modern, international (and one domestic) brands to the best home goods retailers in the US! For more information, check out the website!

Work Your 9-to-5 With Style!

Design House Stockholm Poem Cup and Saucer

It's Friday. You know the weekend is so close but still not within your grasp, and chances are good that you're one of those poor folks who feel trapped within their cubicle-cage right now. Though we can't make time go faster (we're working on that), we can at least brighten up your day with a few modern toys for the office or workplace.

Singgih Kartono features a large assortment of natural/retro-themed office accessories, including a  Tape Dispenser ($26) and a Stapler ($26). Both are also available as parts of their Desk Set ($85), which includes a letter opener and pen/card holder as well. Tune in to some melodies with the Magno Medium Radio ($270). When there isn't much else to do, pass the time with their set of Toys for the Soul ($40) and hope your boss isn't looking. The Klock-01 ($90) will let you know how close you are to closing time.

For those looking for less retro and more modern, Harry Allen delivers solutions with their Desk Set by Reality ($80) and their Bank in the Form of a Pig ($125). Afraid of dozing off on the job? The portable Handpresso Wild espresso maker ($99) will give you a much-needed jolt of caffeine. Brighten up your day with the Legna Table Lamp ($280) by jefdesigns. Check out our full line of office accessories at our online store!

Springtime 2011: Back To Your Roots

PAD Outdoor POD Version 1.0

The birds aren't chirping yet, but the melting slush and the asphalt rivers streaming into the sewer grates mean that spring is definitely on its way (that and the groundhog was onto something). What better time than now to start dabbling in a little agriculture? We have a colorful selection of planters, potters, and pods that will keep your thumbs green this season.

Linvin is shining bright this week with their Pot of Love ($119), available in a rainbow of colors, and is a perfect match for their signature Queen of Love chair ($895). Stray from the ordinary with Planterworx's Element 19" ($210), or revel in elegant simplicity with their True Square Planter ($170) or Sunscape's Rectangular Planter RP2 ($180). For the plant that doesn't like to stay in place, Blomus makes moving around easy with their Greens Planter on Wheels ($135). Turn your world upside down with the Bosske Sky Planter, available in X-Small ($25) and Medium ($75). Wallter stays true to their name with their lovely Wall Planter ($72). Hang your plants in style with their equally lovely Hanging Planter ($72), or Perch!'s Plant Pot ($104). Last but not least, nothing says au courant quite like PAD Outdoor's POD, available in Version 1.0 ($164) and Version 4.0 ($56) in punchy candy colors.

Have You Seen Your Shadow?

Areware Icosa Lamp

Six more weeks of winter. Nobody wants to hear that kind of news, especially when the bearer of that news is a cuddly marmot. While we eagerly await the March lions, April showers, and May flowers, we can brighten up the remaining days of winter with selections from our fun collection of lighting fixtures.

Oilo paves the way with their retro-vibrant Cylinder series ($199-$279), available in a handful of cheerful colors like Spring Green, Cobblestone, and Aqua. Paper Cloud features an equally impressive collection of cylinder lamps, available in Dewdrops ($198), Sunflowers ($198), and more! Add an Asian flair with Schmitt Design's Moso Pendant Bamboo Lamp ($318), available in End Grain and Vertical Grain ($278). temahome offers class and elegance with their Leaf Hanging Light, available in medium ($232) and large ($254). Spice up your living space with John Beck Steel's Beatty Light ($265) or Straight Light ($196). For our finale, we have the lovely Springtide Lamp ($2,731) by Eve Design, a perfect centerpiece for the coming spring!

Cozy Up The Indoors

Stadler Form Max Fan Heater in White

Snow. Slush. Icy rain. Windchill. The forecasts haven't been all that great recently, and while getting snowed in can be such a drag, we have some great ways to keep your home feeling comfy and cozy while waiting for the wintry weather to pass.

Stadler Form's Max Fan Heater ($99), available in Red and White, will keep your digits warm, and it makes an excellent companion to their equally fascinating lineup of humidifiers. Check out the round and funky Fred ($99.99), or the square and sexy Oskar ($149.99). Go ultrasonic with their big brothers Anton ($139.99) and William ($229.99), while cousin Viktor ($399.99) keeps the air clean. Tom ($599.99) does double duty as an airwasher and humidifier. Finally, don't forget to give some love to family friend Blomus! Check out their classy Humydo humidifier, available in Tubular ($39.00) and Curve ($95.29).

Love is in the Air

Queen of Love in Pink Intimacy

That special day is coming! For all you romantics out there, looking to show your significant other how much you love him or her, we have some lovely Valentine's Day gift ideas that will capture their hearts.

Make this year a memorable one with Kiel Mead's lavish collection of jewelry. For the lady or the gent: the Forget Me Knot ring, available in Colored Brass ($50), Sterling Silver ($50), 14k Gold ($230), and Platinum ($720). If your loved one isn't necessarily the "jewelry type", add a bit of irony to a romantic gift with Kiel's Retainer Necklace, available in both Gold ($300) and Silver ($250). For that guy who loves working with his hands, the sterling silver Drill Bit Necklace ($100) is a great choice. We also have something for photographers, writers, tech geeks and more!

Looking to accentuate the living space with a touch of love? Linvin delivers with their acclaimed Queen of Love Chair ($895), available in Passion Red, Pink Intimacy, Purple Sunset and several other colors. Don't forget to check out their matching Little Prince of Love Ottoman ($450) as well. Finally, make it a complete set with their whimsical and cheerful Pot of Love ($119). Check out the whole rainbow of colors in the Linvin lineup- all 15% off now through Valentine's Day!!

Spice Up Your Walls

Dottilicious Wall Stickers by Wallcandy Arts

Furniture and bedding are essential elements in any living space, but no home is complete without a little wall decor that says, "this is me," and we have lots of fun and artsy ways to spice up your walls.

Add a little springtime flair with the Wit and Whimsy Tea Party print ($79.95) by Cici Art Factory. Our Animal Series Wall Art ($45) by Spot On Square is perfect for any nursery. For the artist in you, a set of Chalkboard Wall Panels ($58) by Wallcandy Arts will let you sketch and doodle to your heart's content. Show your fondness for nature's critters with DwellStudio's Gio Snail Wall Art print ($78). Any photography enthusiast will enjoy these interchangeable Frames Wall Decals ($18) by Wallcandy Arts. Add a touch of France to your room with the Paris Wall Print ($38) by BINTH. Number crunchers will smile when they see our George Poster ($40) by Olli and Lime. Finally, if you want to cover the entire wall, check out the bright and lively Nimboo Wallpaper ($265) by Bholu. For more ideas, check out our full lineup of wall decor!

Gus Modern: Donate And Save Today!

We're entering our final week of Gus Modern's "Keep on Giving" Event! This is your last chance to give back to your community and save!

Donate three cans of food and save 15% off select Gus Modern items. Add a little greenery to your home with this simple but elegant Fruit Trough ($97.75). Add some warm lighting to any room with the Frosted Hanging Light ($297.50). The Bathurst Media Stand ($1,440.75) provides plenty of space for your electronic odds and ends while exuding a cozy aesthetic with its walnut finish. For a touch of modern flair, check out the Steel Cube ($590.75) or the Acrylic I-Beam Table ($293.25). The classy Trudeau Chair ($892.50) is a remarkable combination of style and quality that adds character to any living room, and goes hand-in-hand with the equally remarkable Trudeau Sofa ($1,865.75). For more selections from the Gus Modern collection, check out our website's Gus Modern Shop, or stop by one of our showrooms in New York or Miami- but don't forget to bring your non-perishable food item donations!!

Zzz... Zzz... Zzz...

Bergen 1 Pillow by Rouge du Rhin

If you're like most people, you're probably wishing that you had more sleep right now. Though we can't give you that extra hour of sleep, we can at least let you snooze comfortably at night with our fun collection of pillows. Blissliving Home's Morocco Passport Pillow ($75) and Poppy Pillow ($65) are two of several artistic and elegant pillows in their bedroom collection. The Bergen 1 Pillow by Rouge du Rhin is the epitome of luxury. Made in Paris, France, this graphic cushion is pure white linen, which gives it a supple hand and makes it particularly durable to wear and tear. We also carry a great selection of funky and comical pillows by designer Dan Golden ($99). For those who prefer something a little simpler (but far from ordinary), Oilo offers the Spring Green Solid Pillow ($40), the Aqua Raindrops Pillow ($40), and more! The Toddler Pillow ($37) by Nook Sleep System is great for the little ones. Get a good night's sleep and help save the environment with the Prairie Pillow ($60), one of several of Inhabit Living's eco-friendly pillows. Last but not least: want something that isn't so square? Blissliving Home's Wisdom Pillow ($75) will do just the trick!

Curing the Mid-Winter Blues

The Emerson House by brinca dāda

We all know that the grey days of January and February can make us feel a bit gloomy, but we have a few items that will surely bring a little brightness to your mid-winter mood. The beautiful Block Lamp by Design House Stockholm ($129) is one of our most popular products and will brighten up any space. If it’s a touch of playful whimsy you’re looking for you have to take a look at the Emerson House by brinca dāda ($263). This solar powered playhouse makes for a great gift and can serve as a stylish source of design inspiration for your own home. The vivid seagreen of the Hive Coffee Table by Arktura ($1,615) will provide a hopeful foretaste of spring to your living room, and the Hug Bowl by Desu Design ($118) will give you a fresh way of presenting those bright citrus fruits. The Bird Candles in Cream by Blissliving Home ($15) make for a lovely way to spread mood lighting and would add a touch of romance to a Valentine’s Day dinner table. Finally, there’s no better way to start your day with joy this mid-winter than by stepping into a hot shower … so try the Shangri-La Shower Curtain by Blissliving Home ($129).

Stay Warm This Winter!

Blomus Chimo Freestanding Fireplace

Snow. Windchill. Low temperatures. It's that time of the year again, but we have great ways to keep you warm this winter. The Max Fan Heater ($99.99) by Stadler Form is perfect for small living spaces, and comes in your choice of red or white. Stay warm in the bedroom with this Wool Subway Throw ($175) by Urbancase. Our Carved Elephant Candle ($13) by Blissliving Home adds a cozy aesthetic to any room in your home. Give your living space a modern touch with the Vidro Wall Fireplace ($1,251) by Blomus, and while you stay toasty in front of the fire, treat yourself to a hot cup of joe with the Baby Class Espresso Machine ($499) by Gaggia.

Gift Guide '10: THE URBAN PARENT

Highchair by Droog

Our latest post is all about mommies and daddies out there in the big cities: New York, Miami, Los Angeles. Urban parents have a unique way of life that comes with the territory, shaped by rush hours, bright lights, skyscrapers and night life. Thankfully, we have some great gift ideas for the busy 9-to-5 mom or dad that will make life in the concrete jungle a little easier.

WE SUGGEST

Nothing says "urban baby" quite like the Transportation Multi Long Sleeve Playsuit ($32) by DwellStudio. Their Dots Diaper Tote ($160) is a great accessory for the on-the-go parent, and goes hand-in-hand with the Billie Changing Mat ($25) by Olli & Lime. When they're older, the Little Sofa/Sleeper ($98) by P'kolino can give a kid's room a tyke-sized taste of postmodern urban decor. Finally, the highly portable Handpresso Wild ($99.99) and Jonas Damon's Numbers LED Alarm Clock ($80) will help ensure that the parent that never sleeps... never sleeps.

Micacle on 22nd Street

Gift Guide '10: THE ANIMAL LOVER

Modern Baby Squirrel Clock by Decoylab

Our next post is all about those guys and girls who have a place in their hearts for animals. Nothing would please them more than to be able to express their fondness for their favorite beast or critter. Whether they're into fluff, fur, or feathers, we have a fun selection of gift ideas that will make them go wild!

WE SUGGEST

The little ones will go bananas over the hand-crafted Mavis Monkey Doll ($56). The Metoo Puppy ($75) by Magis is also a great choice for energetic toddlers. For grown-ups, the Ursa Minor Figure ($85) by David Weeks is a fun piece of grizzly decor for any room. Accentuate the bedroom with the Night Owl Applique Pillow ($60) by Honeyami. The Octopus Shower Curtain ($96) by Thomas Paul compliments the bathroom with an aquatic touch. His Tweeter Ornament Set ($40) is also a perfect addition to the tree with Christmas just around the corner.

Gift Guide '10: THE JETSETTER

Aviator Travel Bag by Aaron Barak

Our next post is all about those things that will add a little comfort and taste to the whirlwind life of that high flying friend of yours – The Jet-Setter. It can be hard to buy for someone who is constantly on the go, but we have some great gift ideas that work just as well high in the sky as they do on the ground. So put on your aviators and buckle up for a breezy trip through the world of traveler’s trinkets.

No one likes an airplane blanket, so get the jet-setter in your life his or her own beautiful Thomas Paul Alcazar Thoroughbred Throw ($350) to bring a touch of comfort to the trip. The Silicone Travel Kit ($19) by Paul Koh is obviously a must for any jet-setter, and the Flowie Sweet Candy Make Up Bag ($26) will make it easy to stay fresh and beautiful no matter where you are. The Aviator Bag ($806.25) by Aaron Barak is a gorgeous way to tote around all the essentials with its interior zip pockets and doctor’s bag closure. And naturally you’ll want to personalize it with the Dwell Studio Solids ID Tags ($10). And last but not least, make sure to never be late for that early appointment while away by taking along a playful Ticky Alarm Clock ($59) by Nanda.

Gift Guide ’10: THE TECH GEEK

Parrot Speakers in Kiwi by Philippe Starck

Our next post is about the he or she in your life who needs the hottest new gadget- The Tech Geek! We know Techie gifts can be pricey, but who deserves a great gift more than the person who fixes your computer when it crashes or did your website gratis? We've got a fabulous line up of design-forward gadgets and accessories that your geek will enjoy using all year long.

WE SUGGEST

Sonoro recently came out with new colors for their MP3-compatible Cubo Stereo ($299). Pick up a stereo in licorice red, bubble gum pink, or sour lemon yellow. Iconic designer Philippe Starck’s Parrot Speakers ($1,600) are a techie’s dream. They are MP3, WiFi and Bluetooth compatible and almost completely wireless. Their stunning, ultra-modern sculpted shape incorporates advanced technology that delivers an intense and powerful sound with spectacular clarity. But what do you gift the geek who has everything? We’ve got you covered with techies accessories: The Vers Audio iPad Shellcase ($80) or the 1E Sound Isolation Earphones ($50) will help your techie enjoy their gadgets in style!

Gift Guide '10: THE NATURE LOVER

Campy Planters by perch!

Our next post is about that green-thumbed friend or relative of yours always looking for a little garden pizzazz and a way to bring the beauty of nature indoors during winter. Think that buying a hose or a planter is a little bland for a holiday gift? Think again! We’re here to give you some ideas on how to get that unique something for your nature lover, and for those who just like to throw a fabulous dinner party al fresco from time to time.

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Spice up your outdoor watering with the Alice Supply Co Garden Hose ($40) available in both green and orange. The Nido Bird Feeder ($79) from Blomus will give your feathered friends a stylish place to dine while the Lumbra Lantern ($175.49) will cast its own sophisticated glow on your garden table. To bring a little outdoors indoors take a look at the whimsical Campy Planters ($76) or the sleek Plantorb ($116) both by Perch! And what’s a patio without a little furniture? Try the brightly colored Rho Lounge Chairs ($575) by John Kelly.

Gift Guide '10: THE CHEF

Dylan Gold's Chop Chop

Our next post is about gifts for the gourmand in your life. Whether your favorite cook is a seasoned professional or a beginner with a barbeque, we are the source for design-forward and inventive gifts for your in-house Colicchio. For the kitchen-saavy, it’s best to think outside of the box: Fabulous dishes or an imaginative flatware set can really make a delicious meal sing… and remember to never show up empty-handed to your holiday dinner parties! The host or hostess always enjoys a small gift in exchange for their culinary efforts.

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Our personal favorite, the Jason Miller “Second” series ($89-$129) dinnerware adds elegance to any sweet or savory dish. Give your favorite Morimoto a gift that they can practice their technique with- like Dylan Gold’s Chop Chop ($190-$240) or the Swedish-designed Normann Knives ($81-$120). If your loved one is more of a sommelier than a cuisinier, Blomus has you covered with their Pawo Decanting Funnel ($25.20), which aerates and filters red wines. The Cerra Wine Vacuum Pump ($45) sucks the oxygen out of an open bottle of wine, slowing down the oxidation process, and therefore keeping the wine longer. For the professional chef, give them a trendy and chic way to carry their knives with Alice Supply Co.’s Striped Toolbox ($60).