MODERN Magazine
Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Design Tips, Musings
I am always on the lookout for new and exciting design publications. I recently came across a new magazine with an appealing focus titled, MODERN. Modern Magazine delves into the realm of Design, Architecture and Decorative Arts. Introduced by the publisher of Interview Magazine, Brandt Publications, the new resource will be sold at select newsstands in print, as well as online. “Modern covers all of the facets of collecting modern design, from aesthetics to market conditions, emphasizing information important for any serious collector, as well as material appealing to any fan of design,” MODERN It is intelligent and well written, covering a broad range of topics related to many Modern Design interests. I can’t get enough of it. This isn’t a “what’s in style” magazine, this is a go-to for stimulating writing about designers, objects, art and their meaning. MODERN is self described as a ‘premiere art and design publication giving life to vintage and contemporary decorative arts. Created for collectors, curators and dealers, MODERN is the definitive resource for design enthusiasts.’ While this may be true, I believe it is accessible and appropriate for anyone interested in design. It is a welcome departure from the focus of many current design publications. It allows even the casual flea market collector, to learn or confirm what to look for in a collectible in the modernist genre. Guest editors grace the pages each issue, providing a unique and varied tone every time. Subscriptions are reasonable, and available in print, or on your ipad, phone or laptop. Just the answer for train time, or relaxing in the sun and the autumn breeze. Enjoy.
Images and excerpts at MODERN.
Tags: architecture, art, Decorative Arts, FLOR, MODERN Magazine
Two Twig Crafts
Posted by Erin | Filed under Design Tips, Inspiration
With fall right around the corner, it’s time to bring the outdoors in and embrace the new season. Here are two lovely twig crafts that I can’t wait to try over the next few days!
1. Starburst Twig Wreath
So, you love the starburst mirror look, but hate the price tag (me, too!). DIY a replica using little more than sticks and twine. It makes such a lovely welcome wreath for your front door, yes?
2. Stick Art Frame
Need a last minute piece of art or party decor? Gather some sticks and frame them — it truly is that easy. I love the silver frame, but think white would be smashing, as well!
Feeling inspired yet? Time to go outside and explore your own DIY ideas! Happy hunting!
Tags: art, autumn, decor, diy, diy projects, diy-art, fall, nature ideas, sticks, twigs
Ali Douglass
Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Design Tips, Inspiration, Musings
Being a fan and collector of mid-century modern design, I am always on the lookout for new interpretations and expressions of furniture of the period. I recently learned of a collection of prints titled Modern Chairs, by artist Ali Douglass. Originally created as paintings, Ali has released prints of her work documenting these iconic furniture pieces. I find her artwork to be bold and lively. Just the thing to freshen up a space with some classic modern design.
Ali Douglass is a talented illustrator. Her work can be found in books, magazines, newpapers, greeting cards, advertising, and most recently a board game. She has an extensive and impressive client list including The New York Times, American Girl, and Martha Stewart to name but a few. Her artwork is highly stylized and recognizable, and more often than not uses vibrant color and bold graphic gestures. Her subjects are varied, and she conveys the spirit of her work equally as well working on chairs as well as people.
Ali is represented internationally, by Shannon Associates in San Francisco. Her prints are accessible art objects as well, and are sold on Etsy and Bazaar.
Images and excerpts found on the artists website: http://www.alidouglass.com/
Tags: Ali Douglass, art, FLOR, Midcentury Modern
A Sculptural Room Divider
Posted by Erin | Filed under Design Tips, Inspiration, Musings, Solutions
Everyone is forced to live in tight quarters at some point in their lives, yes? For me, a teeny studio apartment in Los Angeles was my first foray into small space dwelling, and I remember the constant struggle to keep the room cozy, yet airy. A very hard combo indeed.
Until now. Had Bloomming’s LightFacet room dividers existed, I would have been a much happier gal. Each piece is a perfect blend between visual interest and modern lines. They’re gorgeous, yes?
I love the idea of utilizing room dividers to compartmentalize various areas of the home, but they can be equally instrumental when installed on a wall for an unexpected art installation.
What about you? Do you invest in room dividers in your home? And what are a few of your favorites?
Image Credits: Bloomming
Tags: apartment dwelling, art, modern room dividers, room divider, small-space, space planning
Picture Wall
Posted by Cynthia | Filed under Design Tips, Inspiration, Musings, Solutions
Now, why didn’t I think of that? Really. How many times have I laid out a collection of frames, traced them and drawn a template on the floor, hung it on the wall, positioned my frames just so, expending much time and energy? Let me assure you, way too many!
Right in line with the FLOR modular way of thinking, Picture Wall is an artful solution for your gallery wall. It offers a line of frames designed to neatly display photographs and artwork- simply. The system has created ingenious solutions to some of the most common and time consuming picture hanging challenges. Here’s how it works:
1. Everything you need to complete your project, short of your hammer, comes in one nifty box. You begin by selecting one of the many possible arrangements for your artwork. They include a stepping layout for stairwells, horizontal or vertical options as well. You can purchase just one set, or combine sets to create a larger display. Just like your FLOR rug!
2. Next you hang up the template, which has a self leveling feature, and even an eye level icon, for best placement on your wall. Two of the biggest challenges of the project have just been solved.
3. Hammer in hand, place the hangers as noted on the template and Voila, you are ready to hang. The Installation Video takes you through the process step by step.
There are many compositions and varied finish choices to go with any decor. Frames come in 1″ or 2″ width, with or without precut matting, and 10 wood finishes. It seems there just may be something for everyone. There is also some lovely photography, with images of varied scale, available for printing to hang in your beautiful new frame display.
A gallery wall like to pro’s. Happy Framing.
Images and product information found here.
Tags: art, FLOR, Framing, gallery, Picture Wall
