Wednesday, March 30, 2011

Oliver Spencer





Selectism - oliver-spencer-cream-cardigan-01Don’t ask us why but this cardigan reminds us of what Hugh Hefner would wear on a date in 1960’s. Like we said, don’t ask why, it just does. Or something we’d see in a ‘cool’ black and white picture of a dead actor. It’ll also double up nicely as a knit jacket on a slightly warmer day. Want some advice? accessorise with a pipe and you’ll be good to go. (Oliver Spencer)


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Article from Hypebeast - here.

Monday, March 28, 2011

The Bangel



The Bengal is a relatively new hybrid breed of cat, formed by the cross of a domestic feline and an Asian Leopard Cat ("ALC").

Bengal cats have "wild-looking" markings, such as large spots, rosettes, and a light/white belly, and a body structure reminiscent of the Asian Leopard Cat (Prionailurus bengalensis bengalensis).[1] The Bengal cat has a desirable "wild" appearance with a gentle domestic cat temperament, provided it is separated by at least three generations from the original crossing between a domestic feline and an ALC.[1]

The name Bengal cat was derived from the taxonomic name of the Asian Leopard Cat (P. b. bengalensis), and not from the unrelatedBengal tiger.







Owl



To twist a digital proverb: context is king. In some ways, it is hard to go wrong when the architectural backdrop for a project is so beautifully textured to begin with.



This World War II era factory was one of the lucky few in Dusseldorf to escape heavy bombing, its thick brick walls and pillars and deep concrete beams remaining relatively intact to this day. In such cases, simply adding some modern accessories and strategic lighting can bring out the best in a space – though that task can be more subtly challenging that it might initially sound.



Linear and blank exterior additions by AABE Erpicum & Partners let the original structure speak for itself – light-painted concrete, bleached wood and plain glazing simply add a new layer to the existing material palette.



On the inside, a series of simple white partition walls, counters, cabinets and appliances seem almost like guests in the home – few of the dividers reach ceiling height and most do not meet existing supports on either side.



Where intersections are essentially inevitable, tactical gaps were left to avoid dealing with the (perhaps impossible) task of joining new rectilinear forms with chipped and worn bricks or mortar.



On a small exterior patio framed by concrete sides and decking, a solitary tree stump was built around and found-food stools set nearby to keep it company. Part porch, part art, it makes a definite design statement.



Such remodels may not be to everyone’s tastes, but they sure provide a strong argument for rethinking abandoned and disused spaces – prior to the renovations and additions, this would have looked like anything but an stylish (let alone inhabitable) space.

Article from Fung-wei Furniture - here.

Uncommon Creatures 11 F/W Line


  

The nomadic lifestyle was outlawed during Communism as of 1964, with disastrous results for thousands of Gypsies. The Communist regime covered up the problems, resulting in the fact that even today there are Gypsies living under conditions that were common thousands of years ago. When the regime also forbade ”traveling”, many villages offered them a home, among them villages like Viseu de Sus, situated and hidden in the Maramures mountains in Romania. The silhouette of uncommon creatures is avant-garde and raw while keeping a high degree of simplicity and quality. For fall/winter 2011, textiles such as pre-washed raw silk, universal blankets (used by Romanian Gypsies) and Japanese knit with silk are used. In addition a few knit styles are 100% wool and produced by a local manufacturer in Denmark. Likewise, all hats are created by hand in a Copenhagen attic by an elderly hat-maker. Further information on the brand is offered here.


Article from Hypebeast - here.

Friday, March 25, 2011

Liberty Inn Murals


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[The Liberty Inn and one of its slightly suggestive ceiling murals, via the Liberty Inn.]



Located just a drunken stumble from the High Line, the Standard Hotel and all the delights of the Meatpacking District, the tiny Liberty Inn has withstood gentrification and remained the Official Hot Sheets Hotel of the Curbed Network™. But the formerly rough-and-tumble (and trannie-filled) West Side is getting more glam by the day, so change is in the air for the last by-the-hour hotel in the neighborhood and its "Romantic Interlude Rooms." The Times checked in—don't tell Mrs. Times!—and reports back:

"On the third floor, carpenters were installing varnished floorboards in place of the carpet. (“It’s the most sanitary way to go,” Mr. Boyd whispered.) Management plans to replace the floral bedspreads with duvet covers, and the nude paintings with something “more current,” Mr. Boyd said.
Curse you, High Line, is there anything your Furstenbergness won't penetrate! Er, sorry for the choice of words. Some things at the Liberty Inn will stay the same. The two-hour rate is still $60 (or $70 for three hours, you stallions!), and the no reservations policy remains. Don't forget to bring flip-flops for the shower."

Article from Curbed NY - here.

Thursday, March 24, 2011

Morgan Herrin










Wabi-Sabi



Wabi-sabi Comes to life in the Alternative by Joan Lao for Luminaire

Posted March 24th, 2011 by Sonja Hall


              

Alternative Collection, Japanese design, Joan Lao design, luminaire, modular storage units, storage unit, table, tables, upholstered furniture, Wabi-sabi design



Wabi-sabi. Designed by Joan Lao for Luminaire.


Unless you’re well-versed in Japanese theories, the different veneers, organic pigments, stone, steel, oak and leather of the Alternative collection designed by Joan Lao for Luminaire may just look lovely, and that’s it. But to anyone familiar with the Japanese theory of Wabi-sabi - a comprehensive Japanese world view or aesthetic centered on the acceptance of transience - it is clear that Lao’s collection follows this idea perfectly. By embracing what they consider”the beauty found in the natural variations of materials and surface textures”, the simplicity of Alternative takes shape.



A Design Using Various Environmentally-Friendly Materials, the Alternative by Joan Lao for Luminaire Debuts on March 31 in the Miami Design District


Travel far beyond mass-produced bland items by considering Alternative’s intuitive way of designing a space. According to the highly-acclaimed Barcelona designer - who has dabbled in art direction, architecture, and seemingly all other creative avenues - the design outlook that initiated this collection goes beyond decoration into a level where the balance and harmony of environmentally-friendly materials and sustainable production find their place in the world of design.


Joan Lao, Luminaire

Joan Lao, Luminaire


Lao applies a special scratching technique to the veneer to create the specific effect which meshes perfectly with the other materials. Also, his use of the a resistant lacquer maintains natural surfaces while providing durability to all of the different surfaces. The range of tables and upholstered furniture to custom-built modular storage units all follow the same guidelines and can be mixed together or with refined products from other collections without a hitch.


Luminaire will officially announce the North American debut of Alternative at a special reception and exhibit that is scheduled to open on Thursday, March 31, 2011 at the Luminaire Lab, 3901 NE 2nd Avenue, Miami Design District.


Wednesday, March 23, 2011

Wud Furniture

Corey Springer’s Wüd Furniture Design first came to the attention of 3rings nearly a year ago with its patented innovative material process:>Pb-R. The process involves encasing lead in a smooth epoxy resin and results in an indestructible yet seemingly delicate surface. According to Springer, “at first glance, Pb-R appears to be a standard metal tabletop or inlay, but as you get closer and touch the surface, you realize that it is in fact a silky smooth and textured material.”


Fusing the artistic and the sculptural is what Springer’s work is all about. At BKLYN DESIGNS this year, Springer is debuting new pieces that further reflect his background in sculpture and exemplify the possibilities of his innovative material process: Pb-R. The Lolita Bench is an eye-catching piece: the structure built of Claro Walnut and the individual seats of Pb-R. The curved form of the seats is reflective of the nature and properties of Pb-R, previously put to use only as flat surfaces. The form lends softness to this otherwise solid piece. “Simple in form and rich in texture,” the Lolita Bench is a manifestation of Wüd Furniture’s stated goals. The structure of the bench mimics the curves of the individual seats, the solid wood a welcome contrast to the Pb-R. The Lolita Collection also includes a large table (for dining) and chairs.


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Red and Grey Sideboard. Designed by Corey Springer of Wüd Furniture Design.


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Brüklyn Bed and Armoire. Designed by Corey Springer of Wüd Furniture Design.


Other notable pieces on display at BKLYN DESIGNS are those from the Red and Grey Collection, “a sophisticated blend of striking Red Gum and Pb-R.” Springer’s pride in selecting the finest materials and exploiting their natural beauty is evident throughout this work. “The company has mastered the art of transforming raw materials into striking works of art.” The thoughtful composition of materials in combination with the collection’s clean lines results in timeless yet unique focal points.


A self-affirmed Brooklyn supporter, Wüd Furniture has opened a new showroom and workshop in Clinton Hill and continues to support locally-owned businesses, utilizing them for any materials and services needed; hence the affirmation “Wüd Grows in Brüklyn.” In tribute to his neighborhood, the Brüklyn collection continues to thrive with a new addition appropriately debuting at BKLYN DESIGNS, the rosewood armoire.



Article from 3Rings - here.

Tuesday, March 22, 2011

The Stronghold

DENIM ROOTED IN THE PAST: THE STRONGHOLD




The Field House is filled to the brim with tons of great new brands like Los Angeles based The Stronghold. Originally a company from 1895 through the 1940's, The Stronghold was Los Angeles first denim manufacturer. In 2004 two friends revived the company maintaining all of the original charm and quality. Only using the best selvage denim, The Stronghold create timeless work wear that we just had to have. Check it out for yourself in the Field House and online.






STRONGHOLD - STRAIGHT LIGHT WEIGHT BLUE DENIM
DETAILS: 100 % cotton, selvage denim, straight leg five pocket lightweight jean in a classic indigo. Five belt loops, button closure, and a three button, 5 inch fly front placket. Stronghold tag on back right waistband, hand pressed brass riveting, and copper colored stitching throughout.
$264





STRONGHOLD - SLIM UNDYED NATURAL VINTAGE WASH
DETAILS: Slim fit, vintage washed natural undyed, 100 % cotton five pocket jean made of American selvage denim. Five belt loops, button closure, and a three button, 5 inch fly front placket. Stronghold tag on back right waistband, hand pressed brass riveting, and tonal stitching throughout.
$288





Article at Blackbird- here.

John Brite






Article from JohnBriteblog - here.

Monday, March 21, 2011

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We are excited to introduce Assembly of New York to Blackbird. This latest collection seems to echo some of the work of the Russian Constructavists in the early 20th century from artists like Kazimir Malevich favoring geometry, modernism and social revolution. This movement has influenced eveything from Bauhaus to punk show posters. While thoughts of Russia might lead you to believe these are pieces suited for colder times, the jacket, pants and shorts are very spring like with a ton of great details. Check it out in store and online.







Assembly - Baggy Trench
in grey
$465
more info





Assembly - Longrise Short
in grey
$260
more info





Assembly - Baggy Three Quarter Pant
in grey
$298
more info





Assembly - Suede Backpack
in black
$236
more info





Assembly - Wax Cotton Backpack
in navy
$236
more info


Article by BlackBird - here.