Friday, October 31, 2008

Go Outside and Play





It's scary how kids these days are so playstation, game boy, psp and whatever else there is out there crazy!

Whatever happened to kids running and playing outside! I remember when we were young we played outside and only came inside because we were forced to. We played catching, hide-and-seek, zero-point, rode our bikes and pretended we were on an adventure, slid down the grass slopes on cardboard boxes and entertained ourselves with play and friends!

Here's a really cute range of clothing by Wire&Twine and designed by Wendy. I'll take mine gift wrapped please!

Faces in Broccoli

I stumbled across this lovely blog called bread&honey by summer and alicia today and read this creepy but funny post on little scary tiny faces morphed into the products on packaging! Check it out for yourself! Here are some photos taken by alicia and macro shots to give you a closer look!Can you see it? Here's a closer look!More scary little faces in on the jam label!!!

Is this creepy or what!! reminds me of the munchkins in the wizard of oz!! eeeee. i wonder if we have Cascadian Farm products in Singapore?

Homey Warm Cinnamon Whiffs




These make me feel warm and fuzzy inside.

photos from skonahem.com

Thursday, October 30, 2008

Sweet Tweets





The handmade ceramic "birds" range by Polly George is so lovely. Simple and sweet.

brig cooks!


We were very impressed by Brig's cooking skills. Here is evidence of her getting close to a real stove....:) She came over and made us really good Swedish pancakes from scratch!! .....actually brig was really impressed with herself too! hehe.....thanks brig!

Marimekko





I'm so excited to go to Style:Nordic 3rd Anniversary sale tomorrow, they carry the Marimekko range and i want them all!

Tuesday, October 28, 2008

Flatshare fridge


This is such a great idea for flatsharers! I hate the idea of sharing my fridge space with un-family members. Well the good bit is we have a huge fridge all to ourselves now. No more guesing games with food in the fridge!

Flatshare fridge, with separate, portable modules powered by a single base station has won first prize in the Electrolux Design Lab 2008 competition. Conceived by Stefan Buchberger of the University of Applied Arts in Vienna, Flatshare also won the media award and the people’s choice award.

"“I got the idea to create the Flatshare fridge because in many shared flats there is a problem with the refrigerator, says Buchberger. “It gets filthy because no one person feels responsible for cleaning it.” College students, grad students and young professionals, for examlple, often share living spaces…and kitchens. With Flatshare, never again will they have to endure another person’s moldy cheese or old leftovers."

Monday, October 27, 2008

ReForm School Rules, Rules!









Reform School Rules, easily one of the most original and totally cool web shops anywhere. Categories of fun little goodies from indie artists are all grouped by school subject - Library for books, Art 101 for prints, Child Development for baby and kids gifts, and Organic Chemistry for (no, not drugs) bath and body products.

One more cool thing about the site is the Student of the Month category featuring limited edition pieces. Worth a look: The spectacular hand-painted and silkscreened Fijian stool in a collaboration between Mali tribespeople and LA artist Kat Brecher with proceeds supporting a local school. Just make sure your kid plays with the puzzles instead.

www.coolmompicks.com

Saturday, October 25, 2008

Scandanavian Grace







Scandinavian Grace is owned and operated by Fredrik Larsson and James Anthony. They provide a wide range of classic and contemporary design from Sweden, Denmark, Finland, Iceland and Norway. They've introduced never before seen products into the American market like Vik Prjonsdottir, Asplund, Ihreborn, and new collections from Marimekko.

Their desire is to present Scandinavian design standards in a fresh and exciting light.

If you live in NY you'd be able to visit their stores but if you don't, no worries, there's always their online store!

Tuesday, October 21, 2008

John Derian for Target






Derian is best known for his artisan decoupage techniques and his charmingly eccentric designs. Derian collects unique items and prints to serve as inspiration for his collections and believes that design is a translation of the imagination.

Coming this September, Target will launch the exclusive John Derian™ for Target® collection of decorative stationery and home décor products. The focus of the collection is Derian’s whimsical interpretation of nature, including butterflies, birds, vegetables and insects. The product assortment includes items such as a scrapbook kit, photo albums and desktop accessories. Home décor items include wall art, shadowboxes, trays and vases. These products will be available for a limited time.

Makes me wish we had target here in Singapore!

Monday, October 20, 2008

Infrared Photography by Scott T Parris










These photos are so beautiful! They're taken by Scott, Brig's friend of whom leads a dream lifestyle of being a permanent traveler! What awe i have for those who make traveling their life.. :) Visit his website to read about his latest travel adventures and view his gallery of photos.

Happy Travels Scott!

photos by stparris

Sunday, October 19, 2008

Studio Violet





I love the poster best. I think it would look super on a wall of my latest decorating project. But then again i would love the journals and the postcards too!! hmm...

Studio Violet was set up in 2008 by Camilla Engman and Elisabeth Dunker (in the first picture), two very talented and influential creative people that are oh so inspiring.

images from studioviolet.com


Happy Hatch


I thought after i wrote the last post I'd end today's list of posting on a happy note with a sweet belated Easter illustration. I like hedgehogs.

Illustration by Jan Brett

Why oh why?




Two weeks ago when Joakim and i were at a park screening of "The Wizard of Oz", i realised i haven't gotten over the fear of surreal animations and films.

When i was young i remember being really afraid of the dancing elephants and brooms in Fantasia, why oh why do they make these frightening films for children. It makes my stomach do a flip watching them...actually it has taken me great courage just writing this post!

Even the latest version of "Charlie and the Chocolate Factory" gets me a little queasy. I blame it on the small dancing singing identical men that get me so weirdly affected.

Any of you get this too?

Sing a song for sixpence


As i learnt today, the Swedish National bird is the Eurasian blackbird. While googling for info on it for a designing assignment, i stumbled upon this delightful illustration drawn in 1880 for the famous nursery rhyme "Sing a Song for Sixpence".

Hopefully when i get up in the morning the tune will be out of my head! *hums


(Illustration from ''Sing a Song for Sixpence'' (1880) by Randolph Caldecott (d. 1886) downloaded from http://www.randolphcaldecott.org.uk/rhymes.htm )

Saturday, October 18, 2008

Lotta Jansdotter







I've seen some of Lotta Jansdotters' stationary at a cute shop at The Picturehouse, love the simple style and the material choice...

Scandinavian born Lotta Anderson's label doesn't just carry her name (dotter means "daughter" in Swedish, and her father's name is Jan) – it reflects an entire lifestyle. From her beloved medium of screen printing, strongly rooted in Scandinavia, to the earthy color schemes and neutral fabrics she uses, Lotta's designs tell her story.

Nature is ever present in Lotta's linens, stationary and ceramics, largely revealing the four seasons of her childhood's Åland, an island between Sweden and Finland. But equally present is the urban sleek, the shapes and colors from her many travels to places like Oporto, Portugal, to Marfa, Texas, or Tokyo, Japan. To help keep track of her impressions she carries a ”visual journal”. There have been a total of seven of these sketchbooks since Lotta Anderson launched her label, filled to the rim with seedpods, menus, pieces of fabric, drawings – whatever makes her tick. The books have become Lotta's personal library, something to fall back on for inspiration in design as well as business.

In short, Lotta Anderson's strong new world entrepreneurial spirit equals constant expansion and change. But she is determined to maintain her old world ideals of running an intimate, grounded and highly personal design label.

photo and info text from jansdotter.com

Friday, October 17, 2008

Fun Friday Finds







Check out The Green Head for funky stuff you don't really need......but would definitely want!

Thursday, October 16, 2008

Park Seat

How clever.....i'd take this with me to the "movies at the park" events they have at fort canning.

Privatepark
/ 2002
plywood & quilted cotton
unfolded 1500 x 1500 mm

Private Park is a foldaway seat to take out to the garden, the park or beach. Unfolded, it creates one's personal space in the outdoor environment.The angle of the backrest can be adjusted to any position thanks to the little feet that dig into the grass. The seams on the quilting indicate how to fold up Private Park into a small bag that may be easily carried around.

photo and info text from: lamaisondemarina


Wednesday, October 15, 2008

Sewing Workshop - Space Saver




This is a really great idea! Whats best about it is that it all folds up neatly after use and takes up minimal space.... the Belgian designer Marina Bautier set up her own design practice lamaisondemarina in 2002, back in her home town, Brussels.

She works on a wide range of projects, from products to interiors. Developing her own designs for manufacturers, interior projects for private clients, as well as self-initiated projects.

Alan the Galant - Pattern Tales





What a feast for the eyes! Patterns by Pattern Tales , designs can be applied to anything and everything you could think of, from wallpaper, furniture, textiles, clothing, tiles, note books, kitchen appliances to the most unimaginable plain objects that can come alive once a pattern touches it.

How great is this! I desperately want my fridge covered!

photos property of Alan the Galant

Monday, October 13, 2008

Quotes by Maya Angelou



Maya Angelou, 80, is hailed as one of the great voices of contemporary literature and as a remarkable Renaissance woman. Being a poet, educator, historian, best-selling author, actress, playwright, civil-rights activist, producer and director, Dr. Angelou continues to travel the world making appearances, spreading her legendary wisdom.

"I've learned that no matter what happens, or how bad it seems today,
life does go on, and it will be better tomorrow."

"I've learned that you can tell a lot about a person by the way he/she
handles these three things: a rainy day, lost luggage, and tangled
Christmas tree lights."

"I've learned that regardless of your relationship with your parents,
you'll miss them when they're gone from your life."

"I've learned that making a "living" is not the same thing as "making a
life."

"I've learned that life sometimes gives you a second chance."

"I've learned that you shouldn't go through life with a catcher's mitt on
both hands; you need to be able to throw some things back."

"I've learned that whenever I decide something with an open heart, I
usually make the right decision."

"I've learned that even when I have pains, I don't have to be one."

"I've learned that every day you should reach out and touch someone.
People love a warm hug, or just a friendly pat on the back."

"I've learned that I still have a lot to learn."

"I've learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget
what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel."

STYLE:NORDIC










We all know how much i love Scandanavian design and i thought i'd proudly introduce my non- Singaporean readers to STYLE:NORDIC!

STYLE:NORDIC!makes the coolest brands from Sweden, Finland and Denmark available for us Singaporeans! With it's store perfect store location at Ann Siang Hill it holds exclusive rights for Nudie Jeans, POUR, Rodebjer, Design house Stockholm, Ittala, OFFECCT, David Design, Nola and Kateha. This multi-label company offers everything from tableware to evening wear, carpets, chairs nd a range of "must haves" accessories for the home and body!!

And remember the gorgeous lace bicycle basket by Design house Stockholm i've blogged about before? Now i don't have to get it ordered in, STYLE:NORDIC brings that in too!! Saves me all that trouble! Perfect!

Visit them at: 39 Ann Siang Road

images and text reference credits:STYLE:NORDIC

Friday, October 10, 2008

Tick Tock






I've been searching for an interesting clock for my living room wall to replace the boring silver ikea one we have. And i love all the clocks they have at generate but i wish they didn't cost so much! Anyone knows where i can get clocks like these at modest prices?

Thursday, October 9, 2008

Cool Cafe's - Interiors and Exteriors
















I love cozy dim cafe interiors with plush sofa's to curl up in. :)

It's also a great idea to have a kids corner for the kids to play quietly so the parents can have some alone time. And to keep the screaming to the minimum.

Tuesday, October 7, 2008

Lampshade Galore!






At hunkydoryhome a UK based online store i found a range of the cutest and coolest lampshades!

Hunkydory home is a home accessories store that, since 2005, has focused on retailing their own handmade funky lampshades and cushions. They are now complementing their product range with the work of independent designers from around the world. The new range is eclectic and charming; with cheerful sock monkeys, quirky clocks and pictures, designer kitchen accessories, and even an exclusive range of wall decals (a fantastic alternative to wallpaper). Everything has been chosen carefully to fit in with the colourful hunkydory range and many things are one-of-a-kind.

text and photos by hunkydoryhome

Desk Art


The Modern Art Everyday 2009 Desktop Calendar on etsy is now available!

This 2009 desk calendar includes 12 individual giclee prints of MAE’s original artwork. Months are printed on 51 lb bright white paper and come in a 5.6” x 5” jewel case that converts into a stand.Makes a great gift!

Monday, October 6, 2008

Cool Chairs




Here are more cool chairs featured on skona hem.

photos skona hem

Karmstol


Perfect design, simple and functional.

Good design has the best durability this is Arteks message. Alvar Aaltos karmstol from 1931-32 was designed for the sanatorium where it was placed in different corridors. Now in new production, remarkably comfortable and in different colours inspired by the interiors in Paimio (Finland). From pale red to grey green - shades that sre so "now".

Bra design har bästa hållbarhet, är Arteks sympatiska budskap. Alvar Aaltos karmstol från 1931–32 ritades för ­sanatoriet i Paimio där den placerades i olika korridorer. Nu i nyproduktion, för­vånansvärt bekväm, och i olika färger som han ­använde i inredningen i Paimio. Från blekrött till grågrönt – kulörer som ligger helt i tiden.

translated from skonahem

Saturday, October 4, 2008

New Shoes - Paolo Nutini


I put some new shoes on and suddenly everything is right ... YEAH!

Friday, October 3, 2008

Nursery Style





My cousin Farah has given me the honour of decorating her sons' nursery and i'm so excited, was looking in the bookstore for ideas today and found this wonderful book called "Nursery Style" By Serena Duganand Lily Kanter. Considering it has a foreword by Kate Spade it's a gd sign that it must be a pretty gd book righto... :) It has gorgeous photos and lots of really great decorating ideas and colour combinations....love it! Think i should go get a copy for myself pronto!


A few good eggs



I'm reading this book now and recommend it to any woman suffering from infertility. It's a really easy read ... "i get it". It's also a good bedside book to have that will make you understand infertility and allow you to stop blaming yourself. Except when it got to the miscarriage chapter i was in tears the whole chapter through.

Open any magazine these days and you’ll find photos of a blissful older mother or a midlife celeb snuggling their new bundle of joy. Unfortunately, these articles often don’t showcase the truth about later-in-life pregnancy. They bypass the tremendous amount of financial, emotional, and physical effort that couples who are having trouble conceiving go through.

In this warm, funny, empathetic book, journalist Julie Vargo and literary agent Maureen Regan — women who have personally experienced almost every aspect of infertility — give the lowdown on what women really need to know. Want to know the real scoop on hormonal havoc, fertility drug fiascos, sperm counts, ovarian lining, cervical mucus and how much this whole fertility thing can cost financially, physically and emotionally? The chicks tell all — all the things your doctor doesn’t tell you and your mom probably doesn’t know are discussed in this book in the way only good girlfriends can dish.

Thursday, October 2, 2008

The Singapore Grand Prix















The Grand Prix was held here in Singapore last Sunday and the most we got to "see" out of the race was the loud sound of the cars zooming by on the phone ( i called my sister during the race - she on the other hand was in the grand stands). Other than the fact that the traffic was a mess due to all the road closures and and all the bus services being diverted i think it's pretty cool that our tiny island managed to host such a prestigious event and pulled it off so well.

Formula One Racing held its 800th race on Sunday here in Singapore,with the Singapore Grand Prix - also the first Formula One race held at night. Organizers built, then lined a 5 kilometer track with over 1,600 lamps, said to be four times brighter than those used at football stadiums. Twenty drivers drove 61 laps for a total of 309 kilometers at speeds sometimes approaching 300 kilometers per hour - in our country that once banned the sport, in part for promoting reckless driving. Driver Fernando Alonso of Renault won the race with a time of 1:57:16.304.

photos and text from www.boston.com