Ligne Roset’s Pan Pan Decorative Rabbit and Pan Pan Table are a little something out of the ordinary, a rabbit integrated right into the table top and his larger buddy, a free standing decorative object. Both pieces were designed by Barbara Kuehne-Thompson, whose background is similarly intriguing. She left the United States for Vietnam at the age of 24. While there, she met Swiss entreprenuer and founder of Wetter Indochine, Michel Kuehne. Together they have managed to combine the skills of Vietnamese artisans with creative design to “…transform the pure forms of nature, bringing them into the home in a subtle, elegant way…” @ Linea
Devoid of color, objects need to stand on their own. Form takes on greater significance. Light and shadow become amplified and pieces start to take on a dramatic appeal. From the simpliest most basic form to over-th-top embellishment and great detail, the designer’s work becomes amplified when executed in all white. Shown here, Berruti Italia’s Valentina C Chair by Maurizio Galante. This white steel rod structure is quite literally “dressed” in all white. The incredible dimension of the upholstery is played up with the striking shadows on white. FTF Design Studio has a penchant for white in design. The very basic form or the CU Table, is all about space and light and shadow.
Black defines space – it creates a strong profile against almost any backdrop. Using black on smaller pieces makes their presence that much more significant. Here are a few small modern occasional tables that stand out from the crowd:
Rava by Bussolari Italy – this Italian company offers a range of tables and accessories in black and white. Each of the designs is bold and graphic.
Marcel Wanders does not skimp on detail. In his New Antique Table Wanders uses his unique vocabulary to express a wood turned base with all the intricate detailing of the past with a smoked glass top and a decidedly contemporay connection between base and top @ Context
From Phase Design, Primi Tray Table – a contemporary take on the Butler’s table. Primi is a a solid steel flat bar base with an inset of bronze mirror or colored plate. Base available in flat and gloss black or white powder coat finish. Color plate available in various colors.
Australian company EcoSmart produces clean burning, ash and smoke free fireplaces and fire features. Some of their newest offerings have really taken things a step further. Dish Fireplace has a Corten-like rusted steel appearance. The form is informed by the traditional campfire but refined with modern lines. Completely portable and capable of warming those gathered around – Dish provides instant atmosphere.
Chester Moon by Paola Navone for Baxter at Art Et Maison
Hand crafted Capitonnè work on the softest leathers makes Chester Moon ultra-exquisite. A clear nod to the past but not without an eye to the future. The old world detailing is completed on an almost amorphous frame. Billowy and inviting executed with master precision. We love Chester Moon!
Cassina: Legendary Italian modern furniture offers 20% off iconic designs from the likes of Franco Albini, Erik Gunnar Asplund, Charles Rennie Mackintosh, Mario Bellini, Rodolfo Dordoni, Piero Lissoni and Philippe Starck @ Context
Art et Maison TriBeCa – Pre Renovation Sale
All furniture floor models, wardrobe, library/entertainment systems, lighting, accessories and window treatments are 50% off. Shown Here: Tecagiano, Bleu Nature Low Table and Cestello Floor Lamp – all 50% off. Available collections include Laura Meroni, Triangolo, Duvivier, Vioski, Bleu Nature and Fermob outdoor furniture and accessories by Rina Menardi, Arte & Cuoio, and Salvati. Also included in the sale is I Guzzini Cestello series lighting designed by Gae Aulenti.
Art et Maison
31 North Moore Street
New York, NY 10013
212.226.3665
Botanist Minimal:
Constructed from sustainably harvested poplar and high grade engineered veneers, the Botanist Minimal has been designed with no visible hardware. It is composed of two distinct elements: a formed bentwood sleeve and a structural brace.
The Art of Reduction:
The minimalistic design is based on a reduction based process. The typical bench was examined and rigorously reduced to its essential elements. The basic components are a bentwood top which transitions into structural legs and a center rib for stability.
Kickstart?
What is Kickstart? A funding platform for creative projects. A new form of commerce and patronage. On Kickstart, a project funding goal and time frame are established. In this case, Botanist Minimal is requesting funding to set up production – includnig tooling, materials purchasing and final packaging to get this piece into production. The funding request ends Friday. So far Botanist has exceeded its goal of $20,000 by $6,405. Five days are left to support this project.
Why Pledge?
Every dollar counts – if you help make this a reality, then Botanist Minimal will be available online or at a great design shop in the near future. You can feel great about helping make inspired design become a reality and know you helped a design studio get a chance at self production.
Botanist is offering nice incentives for those who join in: Most notably, PLEDGE $299 and receive the All Wood Bench with a signature medallion and a limited edition Botanist poster. This piece will be listed at $799, so, in addition to supporting design, early backers receive a fantastic deal!
