Carpets with a Conscience…

It is possible to create high fashion designer rugs with an ethical state of mind.
Armadillo&Co founders Jodie Fried and Sally Pottharst are two such designers with a conscience, weaving fair trade practices into their hand made rugs.
In fact, their entire brand is built on the principle of Fair Trade and every single purchase from their luxury range donates back to building facilities in the weavers’ communities.
“Our artisans are our extended family,” says Jodie. “We treat them all with the care, respect and love one would a father, a mother, a sister or a brother.
“The intricate tradition of carpet weaving has been passed down through generations, so many of our people are indeed families.
“They are all carefully selected for both their hands and their heart – that is, not just their skills but their sensitivity to our design vision – and every individual is treated like one.
“They are paid above average wages and they are integral to their local community’s livelihood.
“Most importantly, they are carrying on a lineage that deserves preservation. We believe handicraft like theirs needs to be in good hands.”


On top of this, Jodie and Sally work closely with the local school near the artisan villages under the Indian organization, Care & Fair – an initiative against illegal child labour in the carpet production industry in India, Nepal and Pakistan.
“We are ardent supporters and vocal advocates of this cause. Absolutely no child labour is in any way employed in our rug making,” says Jodie.
“At Armadillo&Co, we voluntarily collaborate with this vitally important organisation and we are consciously active when it comes to community involvement and evolvement and happily contribute financially to local education.
“Our most recent and very rewarding project was purchasing play equipment for a local school.”
Jodie says when purchasing any rug or carpet made in India, to look for the ‘KALEEN’ label which is issued by the Carpet Export Promotion Council of India. This orgnisation guarantees that child labour was not used in the manufacture. So naturally, all of the Armadillo&Co rugs made in India carry this label.
We spoke with Jodie before the design duo debut their exclusive `Designer Collection’ at Decoration + Design tomorrow in the Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre.


Armadillo&Co designers, Jodie Fried & Sally Pottharst
You are about to launch the new designer collection at D+D – why did you decide to venture into a custom-designer range?
We wanted to create a range of bespoke rugs especially for the trade market for interior designers and architects. We also wanted to bring in elements of colour and texture. All our colours are deep, earthy tones but still have a beautiful vibrancy. With combination of 23 colours and 7 designs, the options are endless!
Travel must also be a large part of your business for inspiration and sourcing – where have you travelled recently, why, tell us your stories and what you have sourced so far?
Sally and I travel to India regularly and are always developing new products and designs. A lot of the inspiration comes from the weavers themselves and working with them in person on the looms. Our best developments are normally happy accidents!


You draw on your love and Sally’s childhood for the Masai collection – was it quite an emotional experience designing this collection? Are you proud to support the African culture and economy? How has your contribution helped the local communities?
We have been wanting to draw on Sally’s heritage of Zimbabwe for quite sometime, but never found the right weave to render this. We have had a pile of inspiration drawn from this culture and we are thrilled to finally have the platform the bring out the Masai and Serengeti range. I have the feeling we aren’t finished yet and there might be more to come.


What gap in the market do you believe your product/range fills?
Beautiful hand crafted rugs that are quality in detail, fibres and finishing, but are also economical and durable.
What do you hope to gain by exhibiting at the show?
We would love to see our new Designer Collection range exposed to interior designers to assist in helping them find and create the perfect rug for the clients and projects.

Elemental Living - The Ultimate in American Made Modern Furiture

Elemental Living defines elemental as the harmonious integration of simplicity and nature. We build modern furniture using honest forms and materials to create clarity in your home. Our furnishings combine high style and function made available to all consumers. Our democratic design approach means we craft furniture that is accessible to everyone. Our goal is to create furnishings that have a value beyond their price because they aren’t just functional and attractive; they are essential elements to modern life.

 
To create modern furniture that is timeless and lasting Elemental Living use the finest woods, metals, and textiles. The materials we select must be considered not only for their individual aesthetic qualities, but also for their durability. These carefully chosen materials provide identity and strength to each piece of furniture we build. We only use these simple materials in the creation of our furniture because furniture is not technologically centric. Human proportion and ergonomics are some of the only facets of life that are not changing as fast as technology develops. Our simple material palette allows us to create furniture that transcends time.

Style and function must coexist in order for a piece of furniture to be truly beautiful. Every shape, angle, and dimension we design is a balance of aesthetics and human interaction. These are the essential elements that drive the form of every design. Our furniture is designed to honestly apply materials where their functional properties are not stretched beyond capability. Each piece of furniture expresses this through simple forms and lines. Our designs bring legibility to the construction of the object. By combining an organized way of thinking with artistic gestures we create furniture that balances aesthetics and ergonomics.

Quality begins with the materials you use and how they are assembled. Elemental Living uses the finest woods and textiles to create our American Made modern furniture. Our designs create a natural strength and durability where the materials are placed and used in a manner that takes advantage of their inherent properties. However, our quality goes beyond the materials. Our furniture is designed for life. We challenge the perceptions of our throwaway society to change the way people think when making purchases. Design and quality create intrinsic lasting value.

A limited material palette and honest form making allow us to create furniture that expresses clean and functional design. Clearly articulated structure along with the tactile quality of wood, metal and textiles brings a psychological level of comfort and balance. Our straightforward legible designs help create spaces that provide a refuge from an often chaotic world.

Gus Modern Summer Sale | Save 20% off!

Take advantage of huge savings right now during the Gus Modern Summer Sale.  Save 20% on sofas, sectionals, chairs and ottomans now through August 14th, 2011. Get hot frames such as the all new Atwood Sofa, sectional or chair or the Jane Bi-Sectional.  Please come in or give us a call ASAP to insure Quick-Ship delivery times as items go out of stock very quickly during this sale.  This sale cannot be combined with any other offer or be applied to past purchases due to Gus Modern sale rules.

The Sofa: A Mighty Throne For Any Home

Gus Modern Blake Loft Bi-sectional

The sofa: its sheer size and appearance makes it an integral part of any interior design schematic, which is why if you're in the market for a new sofa, you're going to want one that looks great, feels comfortable, and is made of high-quality materials. As one may expect, sofas and bi-sectionals are a specialty of ours, so have a seat, stay a while, and check out the possibilities.

Gus Modern Trudeau Chair

 Gus Modern is a proud presence within our circles, and it's not hard to see why; they have something for everyone. If you're looking for something traditional, the Carter series ($1,150 - $2,999) feature a modern, tufted design inspired by mid-century styles. The Rochelle ($1,999) and Atwood ($1,999) sofas are equally impressive choices as well; both give off that classy mid-century vibe.

Gus Modern Carter Sofa

The Essential Accessory: Bags, Purses, and Totes

Inhabit Living Kennedy Mum Plum & Cornflower

There's no trying to hiding it: women love purses, handbags, and totes. They are versatile vessels for a multitude of personal accessories, and are expressive of their owners' sense of fashion. Today we invite you to explore some selections from our collection of bags. Check this out!

Inhabit Living Nixon Leaf Grass & Butterscotch

Inhabit Living's new idea: you can now take Inhabit style everywhere you go! These handbags are proudly made in the USA using recycled materials. These fashionable handbags were created keeping with Inhabit's trademarked style; color, pattern and bold graphics.  Check out the Nixon Leaf Grass & Butterscotch Handbag ($189).

Flowie Saki Zipper Bag

Flowie is true to their name with their collection of floral-themed bags. Their Bouquet Messenger Bag ($74 - $78) looks lavishing and is available in two colors. The Sweet Candy Market Tote ($88) is a nice alternative for those who prefer a tote design instead. If you're looking for something more compact, check out the Bouquet Swing Purse ($42).

Satchel by Aaron Barak

We're not leaving any guys out of the loop. Aaron Barak has a great collection of luxury bags that are great for men. The Messenger ($725), Tote ($675), and Briefcase ($825) are appropriate accessories for the busy 9-to-5 man who means business. Prefer something a little brighter? Check out this Satchel ($875) in their tan-colored Monticello series.

Blue Blood Martha's Vineyard Tote

Last but not least, Blue Blood has a small series of totes that are very impressive. In addition to the Martha's Vineyard Tote ($125) that you see above, we also have a Capri Tote ($125) and a Santorini Tote ($125). Check out our entire collection of bags on our website!

Never Going Out of Style: Ikat

DwellStudio Batavia Dove Duvet Set

Modern-day polyester is okay, but there is something warm and inviting about traditional Ikat weaving and dyeing that makes it absolutely amazing, which is why it's currently the new hotness in the world of home decor. This month, we have some fun ikat-style selections that will add a touch of native spirit to any home.

Ikat Duvet Set in Ash

DwellStudio is the leader behind the recent ikat trend, and they are representing the style with pride. Their Ikat Dot Duvet Set ($90 - $340), available in Ash and Indigo, is crafted from 100% woven cotton jacquard. The set also features a simple and contemporary design pattern that complements the material.

Batavia Citrine Pillow

DwellStudio's vast pillow collection has a few outstanding ikat selections as well. Check out the Batavia Citron ($58). Crafted with a linen/cotton blend and hand-printed in Lithuania, the bright yellow pattern is reminiscent of traditional ikat dyeing methods. Also available in Azure ($58).

Diamond Ikat Azure Pillow

Want something that's even more traditional? Check out the Diamond Ikat Pillow ($58), available in Azure and Citrine. These two feature a bright and exotic design that truly invokes an old-world traditional feel.

For more selections, check out our dedicated ikat section on our website!

Old-School Is The New Cool

Normann Copenhagen BIKE

Retro seems to have built an everlasting legacy for itself. In a world where people are always on the lookout for new trends, that old 60's and 70's aesthetic never goes out of style. Never mind sleek and modern. Revel in bright colors, simple patterns, and classic designs. Here are some highlights from our new Retro section.

Aimee Wilder Analog Nights Wallpaper

Aimee Wilder has a wide assortment of old-style wallpapers that will appeal to the retro enthusiast. Up top is Analog Nights ($140), whose patterns are true to its name. Also available as a  pillow ($50). If you prefer something simpler and brighter, the Baby Wallpaper ($140) is your calling.

Haskell Series 9 Chaise Lounge

Newcomer Haskell has some very groovy outdoor additions of their own, all of which are eco-friendly and totally cool. Check out the Series 9 Occasional Table ($2,574) or the Series 9 Sultan ($282 - $1,176). Imagine laying back on the Series 9 Chaise Lounge ($528 - $1,844) by the ocean on a warm summer day.

Our new dedicated Retro page is now up and running, so head over to our website and have a look at our full line of retro wares and furnishings!

No Time Like The Present

Giles Miller Grandfather Clock

The creative minds of modern design are always working around the clock to come up with some improvements to the average timepiece. Here are some timeless picks from our collection that will bring a smile to your face.

Nanda Tocky in Orange

Nanda is known for their quirky designs. Tocky ($69) comes in several fun colors and looks great on any nightstand or desk. Prefer analog? His twin brother Ticky ($59) will take care of that! If you're stubborn when it comes to waking up the morning, meet cousin Clocky ($45). He rolls around the room beeping madly, and the only way to stop him is by getting out of bed to silence him.

Jonas Damon Number LED Clock

 Modern timepiece designer Jonas Damon invented the Number LED Clock ($80) as a deconstructed and minimalistic version of the 80's analog clock, also available in Translucent Red ($80). For the modern art enthusiast, check out the sleek and sexy Twice Clock ($95), inspired by railroad station clocks.

Decoylab Birds and Branches Clock

Decoylab has an imaginitive selection of wall clocks that will especially appeal to nature and animal lovers. The eco-friendly Kirie 01 ($84) has a gorgeous flower design that was inspired by the Japanese art of paper cutting. Check out the 02 ($84) and the 03 ($84) as well. The Modern Baby Hedgehog Clock ($48) is a hit for nursery decor, and is one of several animal-shaped clocks in their collection.

Era Wall Clock White

Last but not least, Blomus has a stainless steel timepiece of their own. Check out their Era Wall Clock Black ($53 - $88), also available in White ($53 - $88). Like all of their wares, it has their signature modern metal aesthetic.


That's all the time we have for today. For more selections, head over to our dedicated Clocks page!

Form and Function: Modern Art Meets Modern Design

Strida Bike 5.0 - Green

So many styles to choose from... classic or contemporary? Victorian or Dan Golden? We've given Retro plenty of attention recently, so today we're going to show Modern some love. Here are some far-out selections that will bring any home into the 21st century.

John Kelly Rho Lounge Chair

Blomus Enza Dip Bowl Set on Tray

John Kelly has recently added several new pieces to his Rho collection. Up top is his Rho Lounge ($575), whose bright colors will add energy to any patio or backyard. For the indoors, the Rho Sofa ($1,355) and Rho Loveseat ($950) have curved arms as well, and both are very sleek in their overall designs.

If you're into modern metal, then you will love Blomus. Their Ondea Bowls ($82.89 - $110.49) and CopoTeapot ($88) are simple in design but their free-flowing designs stand out in any kitchen or dining room. For the outdoors, check out the Nido Bird Feeder ($88) and the Aguo Watering Can ($87 - $150).

Magis Lyra Stool

Boskke Sky Planter

Magis has an amazing line of chairs and stools that double as eye candy for house guests. The Chair One ($840 - $868) has a polygonal design that has an oddly digital feel to it, perfect for math and computer enthusiasts. The Flower Chair ($1,092) has a translucent backing that makes it stand out. The Voido Chair ($1,082 - $2,669) is simply a work of art in itself!

As always, there's more to be had. Head over to our website and check out our entire lineup of home furnishings!

Your Dad Deserves It

Sonoro Cubo Black

It's almost Father's Day and you can definitely do better than a necktie or coffee mug. Give him something extraordinary this year. Show him what he means to you. Here are some great gift ideas that will make his day.

Design House Stockholm Block Lamp

Design House Stockholm is the brand to turn to for those hardy, industrial dads. Shown above is the ever-popular Block Lamp ($129). Simple but astonishing. The Cord Lamp ($169) and Work Lamp Silver ($120) are also great choices that would fit appropriately in a garage or workshop.

Philippe Starck Parrot Speakers in Black

Perhaps your dad is an electronics kind of guy. Philippe Starck can remedy that with their Parrot Speakers ($1,600). The speakers pack a punch and look stunning in any living space. Sonoro also has a great line of radios if you prefer something a little smaller. Check out the Eklipse Black ($399) or the Geneva Sound S ($300). The Cubo ($299) is a popular choice as well.

Gaggia Baby Class Espresso Machine

Your dad probably enjoys a good cup of joe in the morning. If so, then Gaggia has some great ideas for you. Check out their Espresso Color ($299) or the Evolution Espresso ($229 - $249).

Contextur Viktor 18k Gold Toothbrush and Razor Holder

Finally, we have bathroom accessories. Make your dad feel special with 18k gold toothbrush and razor holders ($49). Also available in real silver ($49). We have plenty of other gift ideas to choose from on our website so click on!

Dining With Gus Modern

Gus Modern is back under the spotlight this month with their Dine With Gus sale. With a 20% discount across several pieces of wares and furnishing, now is a great time to start putting together the dining room you've always wanted.

Plank Dining Table and Bench With Thompson Chair

Gus Modern has a simple and clean aesthetic that's inherent in all of their pieces, and their dining tables are no exception. The Plank Dining Table ($1,160) and Bench ($460) is a perfect example of this; their minimalistic design allows the wood grain to be the main decorative element of the two. The Stanley Dining Table ($1,276) and Stanley Dining Bench ($540) are also very minimal but is lighter in color, and feature stainless steel legs for those who prefer a touch of metal.

Stanley Dining Table Set With School Chairs

Of course, what's a dining set without additional seating for the guests? Gus's Thompson Chairs ($400) in black complements the dark walnut colors of the Plank perfectly. The Stanley has a matching set of Stools ($319.20) but Gus's School Chairs ($236) in natural wood work just as well.

Bathurst Cabinet 2 Door Slide Unit

Finally, don't forget to check out Gus's wooden cabinets while you're in the market. The Bathurst Cabinet 2 Door Slide Unit ($1,356) can be used to store pantry goods, plastic utensils, napkins, and whatnot. For more selections, head over to our website and check out our dedicated Dine With Gus Sale section!