Gift Guide '10: THE ZEN-MINDED

We’re so excited to be posting about our favorite time of year- the holidays! Check out our product suggestions for each personality type on your long list of loved ones. Order now and beat the holiday rush!!!

Wisdom Pillow by Blissliving Home

Our post is about the yoga-going, bonsai-growing Zen-Minded folks on your gift list. While you are still purchasing something worldly, purchase thoughtfully - not things that are contributing to wastefulness. Rather than sending a bland or generic gift (bottle of wine, fair-isle sweater, whatever your knitting needles can muster up) we would recommend giving a gift that enhances their peaceful, mind-and-body lifestyle.

WE SUGGEST

For the active Yogi: Plank Shag Yoga Mat ($95) and don't forget to accessorize with the Yoga Mat Carrier Tote ($205). Blissliving Home's new Harmony Comforter Set ($245-310) is particularly Eartern-influenced. Or create a global home with accessories with the Blissliving Home Wisdom Pillow ($75) or Inhabit Living River Rock Wall Flats ($119). Help your Yogi relax with Blissliving Home's Buddha Head Candle Series. The candles range in scent according to color from Black Currant (Red) to Vanilla Jade (Cream). 

BBH featured in Miami Magazine

Miami Magazine recently did a feature on Bobby's turnkey designs for swanky Miami condominium Canyon Ranch. Check out what they said about us in their November issue:

Miami Magazine's November issue

“This month, when Bobby Berk began offering turnkey design services to the residents of Canyon Ranch Miami Beach (6801 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, 305.514.7000), he really took the resort’s mission of relaxation to heart. The planet-friendly pads feature oversized rugs in eye-popping colors, handcrafted wood pieces and wall art that resembles vintage Americana. But Berk’s “Eco” packages go beyond décor and down to details like flatware – to the point that they practically include peace of mind. Best of all, the contemporary furniture is all FSC-certified. Translation? It’s easy on the eyes and earth.”

Model units can be viewed by appointment. Call our Miami store for more information! 305.603.7495

Curl Up With a Cold-Weather Throw

Fall and Winter are times for cozying up by the fire with a beautiful and comforting throw with a good book and a cup of coffee. Some of the best cold-weather memories are made with warm fires and warm blankets! If you are in the market for a new wrap, here are a few ideas to consider purchasing before the weather gets too cold!

The Thomas Paul Octopus Throw in Indigo is one of the most popular recent Thomas Paul products. Priced at $350, you'll love cozying up on a cool night with this throw. The Thomas Paul Octopus Throw is made of 100% baby alpaca fur, and is jacquard loomed and reversible. Not only that, but at 50” x 70”, this winter throw is big enough for you and your sweetheart to enjoy together!

The Bholu Mandala Throw is a gorgeous hand-embroidered wool felt throw that you'll grab every night while its cold outside. This one is priced at $210 and is popular for its coziness and simplicity in design. Created by Aussie company Bholu, this throw is made in India using only sustainable materials and fair-trade practices. The throws can be kept on the side of the sofa or the foot of the bed and are perfect for keeping winter toes warm!

The Inhabit Living Current Bamboo Throw is a modern, beautiful and oversized throw that is made of bamboo! It isn't made of just any bamboo, either- at only $180, it is totally certified organic. The modern oversized bamboo throws are giant, at 60” x 84” and are designed for a modern color palette with a knitted pattern. The smart Oeko-Tex certified 80% bamboo/20% organic cotton fabric blend makes this lively throw super comfortable. Easy to clean, just toss them in the washer on a gentle cycle. As if all of this wasn't good enough, the throws are also anti-microbial and they breathe beautifully!

Be sure that you get your new throw before it gets too cold!

The Boskke Sky Planter

The Sky Planter by Boskke enables you to bring a touch of nature indoors at home or at work in a unique and stylish manner. And it doesn’t take up any floor space! So if you’re thinking … “As much as I’d love to add a bit of green to my space, I simply don’t have the room” … Try growing your garden on the ceiling.

Plants not only liven up a room with their color and grace but also prove to be good for your health. They emit oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide and other chemicals leaving you with purified air and a more relaxed and stress-free feeling. Having a plant around has been proven to increase alertness and productivity in the workplace, and who doesn’t want that same sensation at home? Make sure to hang your Sky Planter in a place where it will get plenty of natural light and rotate it on occasion so that every part of the plant receives a bit of the sun. This will keep your plant, and you, happy and feeling fresh.

We all know that potted plants will lose water through both evaporation and drainage. The Boskke Sky Planter offers a unique solution to this quandary by gradually feeding water to the roots of the plant, upside down of course, through its clay reservoir system. Seeing as there is no excess water to drain out, the Sky Planter can be used indoors without fear of any water evaporating away. This will leave your plant looking healthy and vibrant for days on end even if you pay less attention to it than you would a conventional potted plant. In a temperate climate the Sky Planter can hold enough water to keep your plant well and quenched for up to two weeks. And don’t worry about any soil falling out. The Sky Planter comes with a locking ceramic collar, kind of like a teapot lid, along with a plastic mesh which you can cut to fit around the base of your plant.

So whether you want to bring an orchid into your living room, some English ivy into your office or hang some fresh herbs in your kitchen, the Boskke Sky Planter fits the bill. Practical and stylish it will undoubtedly be a tantalizing conversation piece and will allow you to look up to enjoy the beauty of nature.

Aaron Barak Luxury Accessories: Stylish Satisfaction

Aaron Barak is a designer who presents luxury accessories that are stylish and durable. His bags represent traditional craftsmanship an have a unique functional beauty to them. Aaron Barak accessories are actually found in every setting, every city and every time of day, from the runway to the jetway. The company is base in New York City and is a young one, having been founded in the fall of 2005. Founders are Scott Zwerner and Elijah Bernard, who share the vision of elevating mens luxury accessories to a new level of fashion.

So the question becomes, "Can the accessory finally make the man?" As the senior designer, Bernard wanted to create a tool for today's man that completes his expression as he goes from work to the gym to a night out on the town, which apparently he has been incredibly successful with. The mission of the company is to be a "one of a kind" lifestyle brand, and not just any brand, but the best in the world. Becoming a world-wide fashion phenomenon is one thing, but doing it with the feel of a family owned business is quite another. Bernard and Zwerner have been able to do both, as is evidenced by their strength in manufacturing the best leather goods. Period.

Take, for example, Aaron Barak's Nickleby leather. Their premium tanned leather is full-grain and made from carefully selected raw material. They only choose clean natural hides, so the grain remains in its natural state. This makes for the best strength and durability. In addition, the leather also has natural breathability, meaning that it is very comfortable. It does not wear out, but instead develops a natural patina. Many say that the leather grows more beautiful as time goes by instead of cracking, looking dull and discoloring.

One of the best parts about buying Aaron Barak accessories? Purchasers of the company's products are also granted a lifetime warranty that covers the hardware and binding of any bags from Aaron Barak. The company warrants that our bags are going to be free from defects from the original date of purchase, and if any of the beautiful products you buy from Aaron Barak does fail because of any type of defect, the company repairs or replaces your product. What could be better than guaranteed luxury, guys?

Fall Decorating Tips to Welcome the Cooler Weather

With summer on its way out and fall closer than we always expect it to be, it's time to warm up your house with modern décor and accessories that will help fight off the winter blues. There are actually quite a few people who take the time and effort to transform their home from a summer hangout to a warm and cozy winter hideaway with warm tones and soothing furnishings and accessories. If you want to get your home looking nice and inviting for the cooler weather, here are some valuable tips to help you out.

First of all, you need to look to elemental colors for inspiration and to use as a foundation for your décor. Air, Fire, Water and Earth are the elements. Colors inspired by Earth will ground a room, making it calm. Fire inspires boldness, Air inspires open comfort, and Water inspires playful fun and beauty too, of course.

As the air turns cooler outdoors, you are going to want to reflect the warm hues of the fall foliage that nature displays. Take seasonal cues from nature when it comes to colors too- Vibrant golds, deep reds, rich browns and dark oranges are absolutely stunning when used in any and all combination. The colors represent an inspiration and energy that foretells the passing of summer and the arrival of fall. As the days get cooler and the sun sets earlier, you are going to need all the inspiration and energy you can get indoors at it changes form and disappears outdoors.

Don't be afraid to get creative with symbols of the season, such as carving out a pumpkin and using it as a flower vase or using some modern décor with those symbols on it. Throw pillows that go along with the season are always fun, and you don't have to always match your couch with them since they are seasonal. You can always buy flowers to have in your home, no matter what the weather is like outside.

With the increasing focus on the environment, there are plenty of eco-conscious and Earth-friendly products of all kinds for the home that look great and inspire an understanding and respect with nature. These products often incorporate earthy colors and textures; a perfect theme for fall. Choose eco-friendly home products that are PVC-free and 100% recyclable or those made from non-toxic material or sourced from managed forests.

Nirvana Storm Coverlet shown above.

Queen Of Love

The Queen sat on her own throne, thinking of the LOVE that colored her life: was it Pink, Red, White, Orange,Yellow, Green, Blue or Black? and she realized that LOVE was not a matter of shades, but a rainbow of colors that would have shown ever after...

The Queen Of Love chair is one of our hottest new items. This modern outdoor lounge chair has caused quite a traffic jam at both our Miami and NYC locations with people stopping theirs cars to photograph them all day. They are perfect for either indoor or outdoor use being made of recyclable linear polyethylene and are also UV resistant to protect from fading from the sun when you have them on your terrace or around your pool. Look for them soon at the hottest hotels and clubs in Miami. You can also see them from a mile away high up on Bobby's balcony at his home in Miami. They've gotten quite the attention up there!

And of course something this sexy could only be made in Italy!

W40 x D35 x H43"

Knick Knacks as Modern Home Accessories

Introducing the best modern home accessories into your house is an excellent way to improve the look and the value of it, not to mention the style and comfort, too. Sometimes trying to keep a house interesting and up to date with the latest fashions can be stressful, expensive and just plain exhausting- that is, if you don't know what to look for or you aren't sure where to look. Whether you are able to afford the time and money to decorate the entire house at once or you are looking instead to decorate one room at a time, there are a few fail-safe tips you can follow to try to keep your costs down while bringing your style up.

First of all, there are several different types of modern designs in home accessories that can really spice up any and every space in the house, and these are affectionately known as knick knacks. Keeping things interesting and trendy is important, and you'll first need to decide if you will be trying to focus on a specific motif or theme or if you will just be collecting odds and ends and trying to blend them together.

Whether you are looking to incorporate a new country kitchen or you are dying to create the ultimate geometrically balanced contemporary living room, a good idea is to look through websites, magazines and publications to find ideas that you think will fit not only your house but also your personality too. If you already have knick knacks that you love that you want to highlight and complement, look for carpets and window treatments, wall art and just a few little modern accessories to place here and there. A lot of the distinctiveness of knick knacks have to do with the shape and color of them- solid shades and simple designs are key to contemporary success.

Hooked on HGTV Design Star 2010!

Whose watching Design Star on HGTV? Better question: Who isn't?! Design Star pits twelve designers against each other to compete for their own show on HGTV. It's basically the Survivor of interior design. Each week armchair designers watch judges Vern Yip, Candice Olson, Genevieve Gorder eliminate one contestant per week based on a design challenge. We have a real appreciation for Vern's 'tough love' when it comes to critiquing the designer's work. And we don't envy them, all of the designers are talented. It's to early to pick a winner right now, but the stereotypes are already present. Front runner for 'villain' on Design Star 2010 has to be Nina. She's opinionated, with a superiority complex that annoys her fellow cast mates. Her win in the first episode, irritated them even more but she quickly got knocked off her high horse, after she landed in the bottom two on last week's fashion episode. On the men's side Micheal Moeller has no problem telling his fellow team mates exactly what he thinks of their design sense. He told Trent in last week's episode, he didn't want to have to go behind 'restyling' Trent's contribution to the challenge. Trent chose not to argue, but was understandably upset at being told his design was bad. In the end, the adorable Courtland walked away this week's winner. He created a very sharp, modern striped wall mural as part of the fashion challenge. Unfortunately someone has to go home and so far two designers have been eliminated. The first week saw the departure of Julie Khuu and in last week's episode we said goodbye to Tera Hampton. Each gave their, "...I did the best I could. I know I am talented.." elimination speech. Now 10 remain and we'll start to see the competitiveness of some of these players. We're anxious to see more of Stacey's work and still waiting for Tom to really wow us. We can't wait for this week's episode! Stayed tuned for more Design Star updates! And by the way, former Design Star winner David Bromstad's vlog on the HGTV website is a-must-watch. Sometimes catty, but always constructive, his break down of each episode is hilarious!

Customize Your Home Media Center with Omni+ Designer Consoles

There is no denying it, Americans love their television. We've established a tradition of gathering around the TV after dinner and enjoying our favorite programs. But now, it's not just enough to have a television, we also need to make room for the high definition DVD player,the cable box, the Tivo and of course, if you have a gamer in the family, the Wii. If you're lucky, you might be able to squeeze a sound system in there, but where will you put the CDs? One solution is to invest in customizable media centers with components that can be arranged to fit your needs. One advantage to investing in multiple pieces of furniture is the ability to restyle your living space easily. The Omni+ collection includes pieces that can be mixed and matched so you can design the perfect home theater. The Omni+ Link Media Center was designed to 'link'' together with other pieces so you can add more storage to your home theater.

Omni+ is on a mission, 'to bring purpose to your home theater furniture'. They collaborate with such renowned designers as Karim Rashid to create functional media centers that are modern and hip. Available in a variety designs and finishes the Omni+ collection will give your media room a sophisticated look without sacrificing what you truly need-storage! Check out more of the Omni+collection on Bobby Berk Home.

Gifts Ideas for Father's Day

Father's Day is Sunday, have you chosen a gift for your dad? No? Well, not to fear, we've put together a few ideas for you!

• A desk clock by Jonas Damon might be just what dad needs to keep him on time for those important meetings. The Numbers LED Clock is a fun and unique way to display the time. It will certainly be a conversation piece for his next client meeting!

• There is not a dad in the world who wouldn't love to receive a new tool for his special day. The Magis Flo Step Ladder will fit perfectly in dad's workspace. Perfect for when you need a step stool or smaller ladder to get the job done. The Flo Step Ladder folds easily and his compact enough to tuck next to his work bench.
• Give dad a comfy chair to relax in after a hard day at the office. The O'Neil Leather Chair would make a cozy resting spot for your pop. Made with high quality leather and stuffed white down feathers, you'll have a hard time getting him to leave it!
• Spruce up your father's home office with a new desk. The Knu Knu Desk #3 is available in different 6 different eco-friendly veneer choices, so you're sure to find the style that fits your dad best.
• Accessorize dad's new desk with a new desk set from Singgih Kartono. Made out of renewable wood, the desk sets are hand-crafted in Indonesian villages, providing their communities with much needed jobs. Give dad a gift and help others at the same time!

Whatever you decide to get for dad, just remember, the best gift is always your love. Happy Father's Day!

Simplify Your Wedding Day with NewlyWish.com!

Ready to love your registry? Bobby Berk Home is excited to announce the launch of NewlyWish.com! We're proud to be one of the first retailers to partner with NewlyWish.com, an exciting new wedding registry your going to love. Couples can register for Bobby Berk Home products, shop for wedding party gifts and favors and browse products from some of NYC finest retailers. Truly a unique one-stop shopping experience. And to celebrate the launch, NewlyWish.com is giving the first 65 couples to create a wedding registry a gift from a merchant in their network (each valued at $100 or more). You could receive a $200 gift reward towards a purchase from Bobby Berk Home!

NewlyWish.com has everything you could want for your special day. From housewares to honeymoon packages, NewlyWish.com has you covered. Let your family and friends know what you really want! NewlyWish.com makes it easy for you to register. No driving all over the city, browse conveniently at your own pace, right from your home computer. You're going to love your registry, maybe as much as your big day! And hey, a free gift doesn't hurt either. So check out everything NewlyWish has to offer, get started on your registry and take a peek at the wonderful gifts they're giving away.

Winner of our Dwell Studio Unique Baby Name Giveaway, Is it You?

It was super hard to choose 5 finalists! Here's who made the cut:

Allison B. for "Whytlin"
Nicole H. for "Brunetta"
Holly D. for "Vespertine"
Bryan M for "Newton York"
Reah P for "Bathsheba"

So many cool names to chose from but only one prize. There were a few risque ones we appreciated, but we wanted to keep this PG! ;-> Thanks to everyone who participated. So who won? You'll have to watch the video to find out!

Fresco Bloom High Chair Grows with Your Child!

Raising children can be expensive. They seem to outgrow everything at an alarming rate! One money saving idea is to invest in products that can be used for years to come. The Fresco Bloom contemporary high chair was created to grow with your baby. From those first days to their school days, the Fresco Bloom high chair's European design will blend nicely in any contemporary home. With unique features such as; 3-in-1 resting and dual feeding and play trays; the chair will quickly become the most useful piece of furniture in your home!
The multiple 3-in-1 positioning nestles your new baby and later, provides them with upright support as they grow. It has 360 degree swivel seat for easy access to stubborn toddlers and a multiple-position footrest that adjusts to your child's developing body. Tired mothers will love the pneumatic-assist for easy-lift and height adjustment. It will literally take a load off your back! The easy to clean leatherette upholstery is available in a range of vibrant colors, so pick your child's favorite! A multifunctional chair with style. The Fresco Bloom will continue to be a good investment for many years.

Winner for Unique Baby Contest will be announced Friday June 11th, 2010-Enter now to win!

We're just baby crazy this week at Bobby Berk Home. Maybe it's because we can't wait to draw a winner for our unique baby name contest! People have been sending us their entries all week and boy have we seen some umm... specialness. Ha! It's not too late to enter, we'll draw a winner Friday, June 11th, 2010 from our 5 favorites names. What's the prize? Soooo glad you asked! We're giving away a crib set from Dwell Studio. One lucky winner will take home a complete crib set from their Paperdoll collection. The little girl cutout pattern would be a cozy addition to a new baby's room. To enter go to our Facebook Fan Page and leave us a comment with your unique name. You can enter as many times as you'd like but each name must be original. You can also leave us a blog comment with your submission. Stay tuned Friday for the big announcement and good luck!

Silx, Silk Filled Comforters are a Natural Alternative to Down.

Looking for an alternative to down, cotton or wool comforters? What about silk? No, we're not just talking about silk covered bedding, but an actual comforter filled with silk! Introducing, Silx, makers of the Silk Filled Comforter. Silk is 100% natural and has many wonderful properties. Not only is the comforter naturally fire retardant (no chemicals), it's also hypoallergenic and inhospitable to dust mites. The secret to this luxury bedding is the 1,300 feet of hand stretched mulberry silk strands inside the comforter. And Silx will not bunch like down comforters. Each strand stays in place so you're not constantly redistributing 'filling'.The Silx comforter is nearly half the weight of down, for maximum heat retention without the heaviness of a traditional down comforter. Silk is the strongest natural fiber and contains 18 Amino acids, which can help calm the nervous system and slow the aging of skin and keep it feeling soft and smooth. The ultimate in self-indulgence and a gorgeous addition to any bedroom. Treat yourself and your skin to a luxurious Silx Comforter!

Taking Inspiration from a Japanese Art Form, The Kirie Clocks by Decoylab

The ancient Japanese art of paper cutting is called Kirie or 'paper cutting'. Traditionally people think of this as exclusively a Japanese art form, but you may be surprised to learn the practice actually originated in China. DecoyLab uses the craft as a model for the delicate designs of their floral clocks. Maiko Kuzunish, the designer and owner of DecoyLab has taken inspiration from the ancient art form to create a more modern look for her Kirie clocks. Working out of her small studio in Kansas City, Missouri she strives to make eco-friendly products that are also functional and beautiful. The dainty clocks are made of ivory acrylic and are backed by bamboo to give contrast to the pattern featured. This charming clock will be the highlight of any room! Bobby Berk Home is proud to carry many clocks by Decoylab. Click here to view them. Eager to understand the art of Kirie better? We found a snappy little video on You Tube, that gives a quick look at the process. Check out the video below!

Consider Dwell Bedding for your Next Bedroom Makeover!

Dwell Studios was founded in 1999 in an effort to introduce modern textile design into home decorating. Dwell Home Furnishings is a division that creates bedding for adults, infants and children that are modern in design and classic in style at the same time. The company has already staked its claim as one of the best with its eye for unique color combination and layouts.
The sheets that are offered by Dwell are woven from 100% Egyptian cotton. One of the features that most makes Dwell so original is the fact that the bedding is reactive printed to keep its saturated color that the company's bedding is famous for. Need a tip on how to get wrinkle free Dwell sheets after laundering them? Dwell recommends that you take the bedding out of your dryer when it is just slightly damp, and place them on the bed to finish.

The designs of Dwell are sophisticated variants of classic motifs, using floral mixes, stripes and strong solids. These are not your grandma's patterns, though. The patterns are very large and distinct. Instead of a spread decorated with thousands of tiny flowers, there might be a single, super-sized white daisy on a brown-colored spread instead. Using flowers for bedding is not new; Dwell using one giant flower for bedding is!

There are plenty of adorable and soothing bedding products for infants and children from Dwell too. Crib sets include reversible play blankets, linen bumpers, cotton percale fitted sheets and sateen crib skirts. For older children, Dwell offers cotton percale duvet covers and pillow shams. Sound like something you'd be interested in? We thought so!

Another unique feature of this promo bedding is that it is all designed to coordinate beautifully with pieces from Dwell's other collections. Mixing and matching is what Dwell is all about. For example, duvet sets are made to work perfectly with their Trim Sheets and their Quilted Collections. The company prides itself too on making bedding that is easy to clean that launders beautifully. No matter your taste or your budget, Dwell makes something for everyone, so if you are dying to remodel your bedroom, give Dwell a try!

A Fresh Design Approach from notNeutral

If you are tired of the same old designs when it comes to home decor, you may want to investigate the company notNeutral. Although it is a young company, it is already known worldwide as one of the top emerging design and decorating firms in the United States. The key to the company's successful designs is its urban flair that is unique only to notNeutral. The company's trademarks include landscape architecture, exhibit and product design as well as many other sorts of architectural work.

One of the most unique traits of the notNeutral firm is the pattern of colors and designs that the designers use- they have available to their credit everything from linens to children’s furniture to 700-seat entertainment venues as well as everything in between. Designs for bedding tend to be simple, graceful, colorful and playful. The furniture and bedding is made of organic cotton and poly blend fill, with materials that are non-toxic and also biodegradable.

Designs for children's bedding is created with parents in mind as well as the children. For example, one of their designs for a children's bed is decorative and charming for a child to fall in love with, but it will also have a toy box or storage bin attached to it, which parents love.

notNeutral is very well known not only for their bedding and their beds but also for the children's furniture that they create. Colors that the company's high quality furniture is available in include lotus green, persimmon orange and ozone blue. Thermoplastic polymer paint and polyurethane finishes are used for notNeutral furniture, which is oil resistant, durable and also very easy to clean. 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. So if you are desperate for fresh, original, fun and beautiful pieces of furniture or bedding this spring for your home, head to Bobby Berk Home and shop around until your heart's content!

Enter to Win a Dwell Studio Paper Dolls Crib Set!

Oh baby, it's officially win it Wednesday and boy is it a good one. This week we are giving away a beautiful Dwell Studio Paper Dolls Crib Set! A special treat for any baby girl's room, the Paper Dolls collection features sweet cut-outs reminiscent of the paper dolls you played with as a child. The crib set includes: Bumber, Fitted Sheet, Crib Skirt and Play Blanket. How does one win this fabulous package you may ask? Well, we're giving you a little challenge. We want to hear your ideas for unique baby girl names. Goth, Wiccan, Klingon are always good resources for unusual baby names. Be creative! Submit your names by commenting on this blog post (one name per comment please) or on our Facebook Fan Page. You can enter more than once but each name must be original. We'll choose 5 of the craziest names and randomly draw a winner from those selected. One lucky winner will walk away with the prize, so start brainstorming. Drawing will be held Friday June 11th. We look forward to hearing all of your wild ideas, good luck!

Socially Responsible Design, Singgih Kartono Magno Radio

Sure we love the simplistic retro modern design of the Magno Radio, but it's the craftsmanship and commitment to social responsibility that really impresses us! Singgih Kartono's Magno Radio, revitalizes craft industries in Indonesian villages, by creating jobs for local people. By creating jobs, Magno, provides them the opportunity to better their community and thus, improve their own quality of life. Kartono says,

"During my final years at university, I was troubled by a very big question: Where should I go and what should I do after I graduate? Should I work as an in-house designer, for a design office, somewhere in the city or should I go back to my village Kandangan in Central Java And set up a business?"

Singgih chose to return to his village and create a new industry more suitable to his village's way of life, manufacturing handcrafted design products.

"Craft is an alternative economic activity that has the potential to be developed and to grow in villages. It has characteristics that are suitable for villages' living conditions and growth prospects."

Singgih's dedication to revitalizing his community also applies to the materials he uses to create his products. He utilizes local wood that is sustainably harvested. And for every tree that is used in production, a new one is planted.
We support Singgih Kartono in his quest to transform communities with socially responsible design! The Magno Radio is available at Bobby Berk Home.

Memorial Day Sale!

Take advantage of our Memorial Day sale and save 10%-20% off the entire site. Save on DwellStudio, Inhabit Living, Bliss Living Home, and more! Use coupon code: MEMORIALDAY20 at checkout.

Sleepypod Pet Carrier is also a Pet Bed!

Looking for a comfortable and safe way to ferry your furry loved one from Point A to Point B? The Sleepypod Pet Carrier transports your cat or dog in their own bed, so they feel like they've never left home. Unzip the cover from The Sleepypod Pet Carrier and it becomes a cozy bed for Fido. Don't worry about messes. It's machine washable, for easy clean-up. When you're ready to travel, simply zip the sturdy mesh top onto the bed base and you're ready to go. Your pet can become a jet-setter without leaving his own bed! Experts agree, keeping pets calm and comfortable during travel means less stress and a more enjoyable trip for both of you! Sleepypod can also be used as a car seat for your pet. You can buckle Sleepypod into a car seat belt, so the pod is secure and won't slide around inside the vehicle. Keep your pet safe and secure when driving! The Sleepypod is a multi use carrier that provides your pet with: a bed, a carrier and a pet car seat all in one!

Feng Shui Tips for the Bedroom: Do's and Dont's

Now that you have had a chance to make sure your bed is Feng Shui compatible, it's time to find a place to put it. Normally, you'd place the bed wherever you felt comfortable, but in Feng Shui bed positioning is very important. Here are a few tips on positioning your bed:

1. Never place your bed under a window. According to Feng Shui principles, this will make you feel tired upon rising. It will also allow chi to escape from the room.
   
2. Make sure there is a clear path from the window to the door. The chi must flow through the room uninterrupted. If your bed blocks this flow, experts believe it will disrupt your sleep.
3. The bed should always face the door of the room, but never directly in front of it. This is called the Command Position and offers you a sense of security because you can see who is coming in and out of the room.
   
4. You should be very aware of windows and doors when placing your bed. You don't want to block the path of chi moving from a window to the door.
5. Make sure the bed can be approached from either side. This provides balance and synergy to the room and hopefully, to your life!
   

So where is the best place to place the bed? You should check a Feng Shui chart for exact positioning but a good guideline is to place the bed in the part of the room diagonally farthest from the entry. And as we mentioned before; stay away from the windows!

Now that your bed is in it's best position, let's discuss what items you should and should not have in your bedroom for proper Feng Shui.

• Keep computers, TVs, and exercise equipment out of the bedroom. It's hard to let go of late night television, we know, but having these items in your bedroom creates harmful energy and is best left for other rooms.
  
• Balance is a very important for good Feng Shui in the bedroom. Not only should your bed be approachable from both sides but you should also place matching nightstands on each side of the bed. They should also have rounded corners to prevent 'cutting chi' or bad energy from reaching you while you sleep.
• Never place a large mirror in front of your bed! This is a big no-no in Feng Shui for the bedroom. Having a mirror in front of your bed can redirect harmful chi back at you. Keep mirrors away from the bed.
  

We hope these tips have been helpful. Feng Shui is an ancient art and many people have had success using it's various techniques to make their living spaces happy, healthy places. We hope you find the same success!

Easy Feng Shui tips for the Bedroom: The Bed

Have you ever walked into a room and it just didn't feel right? Practitioners of Feng Shui believe it's because the 'Chi' or the universal energy is not flowing properly through a room. Feng Shui techniques remove, rearrange or add elements to a space to improve the flow or 'chi' of the room. Recently we did some rearranging in our own bedroom and it really seemed to help so we thought we would share with our readers, a few simple tips they can use to improve their own bedrooms. First, we'll start with the most important piece of furniture in the bedroom-The Bed. Apply some of these tips to your bedroom and see if it makes a difference. Does Feng Shui really work? We'll let you be the judge. But hey, it doesn't hurt to try!

The Bed

1. Headboard: A good headboard provides support and protection while your body is refueling it's own energy while you sleep. A headboard should be wood or upholstered, but most important is it be sturdy.
2. Foundation/Frames: Energy should flow effortlessly all around and underneath your bed. Beds with built in storage, disrupt the flow of chi. Removing items from underneath the bed can help circulate the energy in the room. Foundations and bed frames, should be sturdy and level. The idea is to provide a solid even base to support your body while it re-energizes.
3. Mattress: A good mattress provides a comfortable platform on which to rest and is vital to sustaining good back health. Choose a mattress that best suits your physical needs, while keeping in mind the type of materials used in making the mattress. One option is the Soy Green mattress from Magniflex. It's made with an aloe vera base and has soy inter-weaved into the fabric. A natural choice is always best. You also want your mattress to brand new. Never purchase a used mattress! We think this goes without saying, but used mattresses also come with whatever bad energy the previous owners left behind. Plus, it's just gross!

These are just a few helpful tips to restore chi to your bedroom. In our next post, we'll focus on the importance of bed placement and essential furniture for good Feng Shui in the bedroom.

Offi Packet Table Makes Summer Entertaining in Small Spaces a Breeze!

Dining room tables can be a luxury for some in cramped city apartments. Convertible furniture is a creative solution to small apartment living. Collapsible tables can provide your guests with a comfortable place to sit. The Offi Packet Table is a convertible table that folds away when not in use. Easy to use, simply open the sides to reveal the 4 stools hidden beneath. Viola! An instant dining space to enjoy. Take it from room to room, or even outside to the patio. It's portable and compact so use it wherever you need dining space. When the party is over, simply fold the stools and tuck them into the base. The tables side's can be folded down so you can use it a small table. The Offi Packet Table has a small footprint, so you can push it into a corner when not in use. So easy! The cornerstone of Offi's designs is their functionality. They do this without sacrificing style. simple put; Offi is just good design!

Oops Crib by Structured Green-A Happy Accident

Balance your need for style and desire to help better the Earth with The Oops Crib by Structured Green.It's made with quality materials that are sustainably produced, certified reclaimed, recycled or recyclable. Recently, much has been made of saving trees to avoid the onset of climate change. Recycled lumber materials are everywhere: old homes and buildings are being torn down everyday, but it can be difficult to reclaim and require additional man hours. Structured Green believes it's worth the extra effort to avoid cutting down another tree. The crib is not only beautifully constructed, it's also free of toxic chemicals.They use water safe adhesives, and a finish of raw, food grade tung oil for a deep shine. That means baby is breathing in noxious gases in his slumber.
The crib's child-safe sides features variegated bamboo slats that give the bed a rich modern look. And what are the origins of the name? The Structured Team explains the name‘Oops’ name by saying, “When Mom said you were her happy accident, she was only half kidding. We love you just the same.” We love the Oops Crib, and we're not joking!

Bobby Berk Home Welcomes New Clothier and SoHo Neighbor All Saints

Everyone knows if you're looking for great fashion or home design you head to SoHo, NYC! SoHo is home to the world's top designers and retailers and we're so proud to be part of this exceptional community. The latest addition to our neighborhood is British clothing store All Saints. After months of walking by the boarded up storefront, we were excited to be able to step inside and peruse their wares. Let's just say, it has quickly become one of our new favorite stores. They offer up a hot line of quality clothing for men and women. The All Saints style has a rock-n-roll vibe with a clean edge, one word-sexy! All Saints 'celebrity entrance' (or what common folks might call the backdoor!) is also on Crosby Street, just a hop, skip and a jump from Bobby Berk Home. So don't be surprised to find us cruising the aisles of All Saints on our lunch hour. Actually, it might be dangerous to have them in such close proximity. We want to buy everything! Another new neighbor is the SoHo Synagogue. An inspirational addition to the neighborhood, the SoHo Synagogue is being billed as the 'hipster synagogue'. It's a gorgeous space and did you know, the first synagogue in SoHo? Crosby Street is also home to Vespa SoHo (want one!) and Bloomie's celebrity entrance. So next time you shop Bobby Berk Home, visit some of our fabulous neighbors. Crosby Street is where it's happening!

The Winner of Our Facebook Fan Page Giveaway is Revealed!

Thanks to all of our Facebook Fans who entered to win by leaving us a comment! We always wanted our own awards show, so we decided to do a live video to reveal the winner. OK, OK, it's not the Grammys, perhaps we can start the Bobbys! In any case, congratulations to our winner and a big thank you to all our fans for playing. Stay tuned for more fabulous giveaways!

Perch! The Early Bird Pendant Light

Spring is in full bloom but we can still enjoy the wonders of nature, indoors! The simple earthenware design of Amy Adams' Perch! Early Bird Pendant Light, is what makes this little lamp so sweet. Soft light pours out of the bottom, the tail and the top of the wings, giving a gentle glow to the room. Hang it above your dining table. It comes with a 15' long cord with a plug and switch. Or if you prefer, it can be hardwired with a white ceramic canopy, perfect for a bedroom or nursery. The pendant light uses one 25-60 watt candelabra bulb so you can create your room's own ambiance. The Perch! Early Bird Pendant Lamp is sure to add charm to whatever room you use it.

Organizing a Small Apartment- Some tips to Get You Started

The spring cleaning season is almost over, now it's time to get organized! But what if you live in small space? It can be a challenge organizing a small apartment, but it's not impossible! Here are just a few organizing tools to get you started on the path to tidiness:

• Look for multifunction furniture. Seating can easily do double duty. The Eastvold Entry Bench can be used to for sitting, but it's drawers and shelves can also keep your outdoor gear where you need it.
• Bring your books and magazines up to new heights! Magazines will be easy to reach and attractively displayed with the Blomus Wire Wall-Mounted Magazine Rack.
• Modern dish drainers can help create space in small kitchens. The Magis Dish Doctor holds a surprising number of dishes and when not in use can be quickly placed under a counter. What's the best dish drainer ever? The one that can easily be put away when not in use!
• You could always take the direct approach and proudly display your clutter. Collections, clothing and toys can be attractively arranged on shelves. Try using brightly-colored ones, like the Way Basic Rectangle Plus 3 Shelf. Bold colors can help to distract from the contents of the shelving.

'Neat and tidy' should be every small apartment dwellers mantra. You can't hide everything in a small space. Just remember, whatever you choose to reveal, make sure it's clean and orderly. You may even try color-coding clothing or books to give a sharper look.

Simple Tips for Changing the 'Season' of Your Home

As spring days lead into summer it's time to think about brightening up the look and feel of your home. Just as the seasons subtly change from one to another so should your home. We're not talking about a major overhaul! Little touches here and there can shift your abode from winter coziness to spring/summer fun! Here are a few simple tips for changing the season of your home:

*All those warm throws and pillows gave your home a cozy feel in the winter but it's time to put them away and bring out your fun summer pillows! Pillows in bright coordinating colors can really make a room pop and can instantly sets the the theme of your home.
*Change out those family pictures of your ski holiday with amusing photos of your last camping trip. A great opportunity to feature all your fun family holidays!
*Replace darker home accessories with light and colorful knick knacks. It's easy to change out a warm colored vase for one that's a little more in tune with the season. Plus, you'll need a gorgeous vessel to put all those summer flowers in!
*Just because it's summer doesn't mean you have to put away your candles. Replace warmer scents with the smells of summer! Tropical scents can instantly take you back to your last beach vacation.
*Consider rearranging our furniture. Changing up the floor plan can make it easier for you and your guests to mingle during all those sizzling summer parties you're going to have!

Aquaovo Ovopur Filtration System is a Eco-Friendly Alternative to Bottled Water

Who doesn't enjoy the taste of a nice bottle of cold filtered water on a hot summer day? We certainly do. Americans buy an estimated 29.8 billion bottles of water per year. That's a lot of H2O! Unfortunately, all those bottles amount to a gigantic eco-nightmare, because eight out of ten water bottles will end up in a landfill. The Aquaovo Ovopur Filtration System gets rid of the bottle all together, by providing you with a natural water filtering alternative. Ovopur's award winning design utilizes an offline gravitational filter with multi layers that remove 99% of water born pollutants. It's made of chemical free porcelain and lead free glazing, so you can be sure you're drinking only clean water and not swallowing harmful chemicals. It's attractive egg shaped design helps to circulate the water, regenerating it, so your water doesn't become stagnant. This helps to reduce bacteria build up, which you often see in other types of filtration systems. And you won't be changing filters every month! Ovopur's filter lasts 4 months and is recyclable. Place the Ovopur on the counter, fill it with water and forget about it. The magnetic marker on the side of the unit indicates when the water level is low so you can refill it. It holds approximately 2.9 gallons. The Aquaovo Ovopur is an excellent way to enjoy clean, healthy water without wasting our Earth's valuable resources!

Bobby Berk Home Facebook Fan Giveaway!

Bobby Berk Home wants to show our appreciation to all our loyal Facebook fans! We are giving away a set of luxurious Matteo Washed Sateen King Sheets to one lucky Facebook Fan who leaves us a comment on our Fan Page before Sunday May 23rd, 2010.
Bobby Berk Home is proud to carry Matteo products because they use only the world's most luxurious textiles to create their line of sumptuous bedding. Their mission is to create a superior product line and they accomplish this by focusing on quality rather than quantity. Matteo's incredible attention to detail is what makes their line of products truly special. They use high quality fibers such as; Egyptian cotton, Peruvian alpaca, Baltic flax and Nepalese cashmere to create their extraordinary line of bedding and bath products. Matteo bedding will turn your bedroom into a dreamland oasis!
Sound like a dream come true? It could be! Enter to win a King set of Matteo Sateen sheets today by leaving a Facebook Fan page comment for Bobby Berk Home and we'll enter your name into the drawing. Not a Facebook Fan? No problem! Click here and become one today! We will announce the winner on May 24th so leave a comment and good luck!

Birds of a feather… Dwell Together?!

There is something very therapeutic about bringing organic, seasonal elements into a sterile feeling space. What better way to bring the spring indoors than with a dash of songbird whimsy? DwellStudios has truly perfected bird motifs; from the wildly popular Chinoiserie design to this lovely Peacock Citrine duvet set. DwellStudios are the masters of creating a very modern design while utilizing traditional elements. The imperfect lines give the pattern a hand drawn feel and the bold, rich color palette creates a timeless, eye-catching piece. The duvet sets include a duvet cover with hidden button closure and two French-back shams; each piece is made of 400-thread count cotton percale that makes you feel as safe and snug as a hatchling in a nest!

The Creative Light…

The IQ Light by Stig Hansen is one of the most popular pieces in the SoHo showroom often drawing people off the streets to stop in, and check out this very cool lighting solution. The beauty of the geometry and the sheer genius of the design make it a standout! With a design system based on single interlocking modules and choices of assembly patterns the IQ Light can be formed to more than twenty-one different lampshade designs! The broad range of possibilities of the IQ Light lighting system can satisfy different personalities, needs and desires. The IQ light comes flat-packed, and is available in five different sizes, ranging in diameter from 12 to 32 inches. The modules are constructed from translucent white PVC, which is virtually unbreakable and super easy to clean. When assembled to an interlocking shape, the system can be used to shade a standard bulb and socket; giving you total control of the mood created. A subtle organic surface and the fine diffuse glow are the most original elements of this design. The perfect solution for lofts and other tight spaces that need light and beauty in one place!

Bonkers for Bholu!

Want to take a trip down under but don’t care for the serious jet lag? Then spice up your space with some Aussie flavor and fun with Bholu wallpaper! Bholu products are designed in Australia and are brought to life the by hands of women artisans in India. The philosophy behind Bholu is about creating loveable products while benefiting communities they work with along the way. A part of all proceeds go back to the women and their communities, along with funding education facilities and other programs for underprivileged children. Bholu is a Fair Trade and Climate Neutral Company; so you can feel good in a space that looks great!

The Marjorie Duck, Mavis Monkey Bubalah, and Frederick Elephant Border wallpapers are whimsical and perfect for nurseries or children‘s rooms. Fun and imagination are nurtured by the bright and playful designs; which are inspired by children’s artwork, but Bholu is not just for kids… The Nimboo and Ziddi prints are perfect for apartment sized living and they look amazing as either an accent wall or for an all over design; which is the perfect solution for those spaces that are in need of some texture and warmth. And for a great pulled together look Bholu has great throws and pillows to boot!