Interior Design

When it comes to impressing guests, it’s the little things that count. So, why settle for forgettable plastic drinking straws when biodegradable ones will leave a better impression? Offered by Kikkerland, these faux bamboo straws are printed with soy based inks and coated with food-safe wax—making them good to look at, fun to drink from, and compost bin-ready, once used. image: Kikkerland

My favorite landscaping contains no color other than shades of green to accent the architectural elements. via via via

What did you want to be when you were a kid? When The Grownups asked me that question I always replied with a firm, clear response: 'I'm going to be an author'. Today I make my living in a field that employs many forms of communication, but the verbal arena is where I'm most comfortable—and it's also where I shine most brightly. So it comes as no surprise that have a soft spot for art that incorporates language. After all, words are where I'm a Viking. I've been busily bookmarking prints that make great use of typography as I start to think about how I'd like to decorate the walls of my Los Angeles apartment. Whether you incorporate one or two of these wordy works into a gallery wall or use a single piece for impact, they make a brilliant alternative to a framed poster or painting that is simply visual in nature.  A few favorites are included here, but this round-up just scratches the tip of the iceberg! I'm partial to the prints that make me smile. We all have that friend who goes ALL CAPS on us when texting, or the buddy who first sent us the link to Sweet Georgia Brown's 'Ain't Nobody Got Time For That' Youtube Video. Why not buy a second poster while you're at it and thank these pals for the laughter they've brought to your life? After all, words are important but actions count for a whole lot more! Shopping Guide: Love Love Me Do Print, If Not Now Then When Print, I Like You & I Love You Print, Ain't Nobody Got Time For That Print, Hegel Passion Quote Print, Don't Make Me Go All Caps On You Print. Images: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Nine stone cabins are sheltered beneath a single thatched roof in this addition to a hotel resort in Nha Trang, Vietnam, by architecture practice a21studio (+ slideshow). (more...)

News: urban improvements such as cycle paths, parks and public transport could transform Brooklyn and help turn New York City into the USA's leading location for technology firms, according to plans unveiled this week. (more...)

To say that Manulution’s D-TAIL Sofa is not your average sofa is to state the obvious. One look at this hand-crafted, solid wood beauty, with its streamlined profile and thoughtful detailing, and it’s clear that this is modern design at its lasting best. And now, 2Modern wants to give you a chance to own the D-TAIL Sofa, with a retail value of $4,000! Enter our 7-Day Manulution Sofa Giveaway anytime through June 24, and you’ll have a shot at taking home a future classic—and be sure to share you entry with friends because you’ll get an additional sweepstakes entry for each friend who subsequently enters! Click http://woobox.com/uef46f for a chance to win now!

Materials: Trofast boxes, jig saw, sand paper, screws Description: Ikea's toys storage boxes were used both to cover the ceiling, and to create the libraries. With a jig saw I cut the bottom of the boxes which were then fixed to the wall, alternating with closed boxes with LEDs inside. I fixed to the ceiling the smaller boxes over adhesive strips of LEDs for a very effective ceiling light! The desk is obtained from two old Ikea tables. On the wood I fixed the boxes, while the legs become a shelf for the glass top beneath which are placed TROFAST boxes used as drawers. See more of the Trofast studio. ~ Rosandra, ItalyMore hacks on IKEAHackers.net

Artfully considered, distinctive in concept, Susan Manrao Design focuses on interiors spaces that convey warmth and character while incorporating innovative art installations and inventive technology. I like it alot - especially the warm, neutral colours.

New York based artist Mark Reigelman has created The Reading Nest, a new temporary art installation at The Cleveland Public Library in Cleveland, Ohio. You can watch a video of the installation – here Description The Reading Nest was inspired by mythical objects and symbols of knowledge. Concept: For centuries objects in nature have been associated with knowledge and wisdom. Trees of enlightenment and scholarly owls have been particularly prominent in this history of mythological objects of knowledge. The Reading Nest is a visual intermediary between forest and fowl. It symbolizes growth, community and knowledge while continuing to embody mythical roots. Process and Specs: The Reading Nest was created with discarded wood boards that were obtained through local Cleveland industrial and manufacturing sources. A basic wooden 2″x4″ armature was built and reinforced with 200′ of steel cable. The armature was cladded with over 10,000 discarded palette boards which were held in place by approximately 40,000 nails. It took a team of 5 guys 10 full days to complete the installation. The final work stands approximately 13′ tall and 36′ wide. Color: The Reading Nest is comprised of 10,000 reclaimed boards. 4,000 of these boards were left raw and weathered while 6,000 were painted with a gold exterior paint. The exterior of the nest is a combination of raw boards and golden boards while the interior is completely covered in golden boards. During the day the installation offers a powerful glow and an intense experience for visitors. This color choice was inspired by the legendary Griffin. This king of beasts, with the rear body of a lion and the head and wings of an eagle, is said to have made it’s nest of pure gold and, as such, protected it ferociously. The Griffin is regularly seen sculpted from stone and standing guard at the entrances of civic buildings across the country including The Cleveland Public Library. The project is presented by the Cleveland Public Library and LAND studio. Artist: Mark Reigelman Photography: Mark Reigelman and Bob Perkoski

Artek launched their ABC Collection at the New York International Gift Fair earlier this year, the Finnish furniture brand’s first foray into the home accessories market. Most prominent amongst the vintage textile patterns featured on the line’s offerings is Siena, a simple grid pattern designed by Alvar Aalto, the company’s co-founder, in 1954. The 100% cotton canvas Bag Siena is about as smart and modern as a summer tote gets, and equally stylish in both black and red.Images: Artek