Turn That Table Upside Down
Sometimes I come across something and think “How didn’t I think of that?”. Usually it involves some ultra-simple idea that only a super visionary can imagine. (One, which I am not). I am thrilled to share this awesome idea with you guys – a table that becomes a tray that becomes a carrier that becomes a table again. Confused at all? Take a look at this image below.
I completely love this table and, as we small space dwellers know, any furniture or decor that can truly double as something else can make a big difference in a space with small amount of square footage. Aside from the clever function of this piece, the look is also super cool – wood, metal and clean lines – all the trimmings for a visual impact. What do you think of this neat piece? Have you ever had a “What didn’t I think of that?” moment? Share your story below.
(Image via Pinterest)
March 4, 2013
DIY, Ready Made Curtain
Now this is my kind of DIY project. A system of parts, completely customizable to work with your individual decor, and simple enough to put together and hang in an afternoon. ‘Greater than the sum of its parts: ‘Ready Made Curtain’ by the celebrated Bouroullec brothers for Kvadrat comes in kit form.’ Of course, this simple idea is a brilliant example of a low cost design solution, with an elegant and sophisticated result. Not afraid to roll up your sleeves, and add your own signature design statement? This could prove to be a lot of fun.
Images and excerpt sourced at Phaidon
Tags: architecture, Bouroullec Brothers, diy, Drapery, interior design, Kvadrat, Modern Design, modular, Ready Made, Window Coverings
March 4, 2013Modern Brick
Other than reclaimed wood, there isn’t a material that can bring as much charm into a space than brick. That said, a lot of times, brick can skew a bit rustic. Fortunately, there is no shortage of gorgeous inspiration out there incorporating brick into modern spaces.
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Do you have brick in your home?
March 1, 2013
Charles Smith Wines by Olson Kundig Architects
Olson Kundig Architects designed a ’5,000-square-foot conversion of an auto-electric garage dating from the 1920s, in downtown Walla Walla Washington, into a “world headquarters” for Charles Smith Wines.’ Flexibility to reconfigure furniture for multi purposed space use was a driving force in the process. The aesthetic is edgy and seems fitting to reflect the vibe of this happenin’ wine brand. The spirit of the former garage was maintained, and I would suggest leveraged, as open bays were maintained to set up for events, with the ability to accommodate food trucks driving right in to the space for some downright dynamic catering. I’m a big fan of Seattle based Olson Kundig Architects, and have written about them here on the FLOR blog on several occasions before (One Room Cabin, Tom Kundig Collection). Kundig’s signature expressed hand cranked mechanical systems (below), are the operable component for movement of the large glass doors, opening the space to extend a welcome to the street scene beyond. Being a native of the Pacific Northwest myself, I’ve got Charles Smith Wines on my must see list during my next visit.
“The design team was inspired by Charles’s in-your-face attitude to create a raw space that highlights the original aesthetics of the building while inserting highly flexible pieces, including a large unit dubbed the Armadillo. The resulting space can transform from an office, tasting room and retail store into a dining and entertainment venue. The shell of the building—with original brick walls, wood trusses and a concrete floor—received minor structural updates but was otherwise left raw. The team highlighted the automotive history of the building by replacing garage doors with two custom, hand-cranked pivot doors that completely open the space to the street and form an awning for outdoor seating.”
Content sources olsonkundigarchitects.com, Architectural Record Construction
Tags: architecture, Charles Smith Wines, interior design, Olson Kundig Architects, Seattle, Walla Walla Washington, Warehouse Conversion, Wine Tasting, Winery
February 28, 2013Decorating With What You’ve Got
Decorating and re-decorating can often put a serious dent in the budget. Between functional furnishings and cozy textiles, there’s often little wiggle room left for my favorite aspect – the accessories! Naturally, I’m always looking for personal ways to jazz up my space without paying a fortune. Need a few examples? Look no further than your own attic, closet or toy chest for some surprising ways to stretch your dollar and beautify your room!
Tags: accessories, decor, wall decor
