Charm In Antwerp

When your starting point is a Poul Kjaerholm retrospective poster, how can you go wrong. Such was the case for this remodel of the Antwerp home of graphic designer Davy Dooms, who drew on the Kjaerholm poster's color pallet of "black, white, brown, grey, and orange."  Lots of white, with some tasteful mid-century pieces in between. Tall ceilings and a deference to open floor space help too. It might the dark blue suit of dutch design, but we're not complaining. Via Remodelista. Photos by Niko Caignie.

The Non-trophy Kitchen

We've recently been talking a lot about the idea of the "trophy kitchen" and, more specifically, how we more often find ourselves admiring those kitchens with a humble character. I came across this Copenhagen kitchen thanks to my dogged obsession with the blog you are the river. (Conveniently, it and the attached apartment is currently for sale!). Economically speaking, there's not a whole going on. But you can't beat that character. The simple tile backsplash, amazing tiles trivets together with the pop of color on the shelving makes more a perfect example of cheap of cheerful. Find photos of the whole place here. Via you are the river and Lena Corwin.

LEDs on the Rise

Being in the kitchen design business, we are always keeping tabs on the discreet lighting world.  More often than not, LEDs are the preferable option. Incidentally, we were excited to come across this New York Times article, noting the recent decline in price of LED bulbs. While the article looks at conventional screw-in bulbs, the benefits carry over into under-cabinet style lighting as well.

When deciding on kitchen lighting, it's important to recognize whether you are looking for task light, I.E. a brighter, possibly adjustable light, or simply for accent lights, typically less bright and lower profile. That being said, here are a few we are pretty eager to try out...

The BAZZ LED103 Three-Light Fixture 

IKEA Dioder Battery-powered In-drawer Lamp

LED Kits from Inspired LED 

The Designer Clubhouse

Pared down just the way we like it. A true testament to the potential of cinderblock and plywood. More to the point, we love the down-to-business, single run kitchen. (Architect unknown - Please help! Photographs by Dujardin Filip via OWI)

A Little Bit of Small and Great

Always a promoter of the easy way out, I couldn't help but post this modestly awesome kitchen from, previously mentioned, Tato Architects. A great, inexpensive look to bring to your apartment: Simple open shelving, butcher block counters, and humble two-burner cooktop. Perfect. Via designboom.

From Tato Architects

We've kind of been on a Japanese architecture bender lately. So we were predictably excited to find this project from Kobe-based Tato Architects. Located in Futakoshinchi, Japan, were we struck by the unassuming context, humbly tucked away in an alley. But a closer look finds a serene and playful use of light and an embrace of small, comfortable spaces. We're particularly in love with their use of a step-stool as part of the staircase; A great opportunity to integrate that bit of craftsmanship and character to the space. For more, visit Tato Architects. Via  designboom. Photos by Mitsutaka Kitamura. 

 

The Luxury of Open Space

There is something strikingly luxurious about the simple idea of space; The potential of it. I should preface by saying, this is entirely from the standpoint of the cramped New Yorker. But for some, it may sound an awful lot like a waste. To them I say that the visual value of an underdeveloped room is too often overlooked. Think about it like a studio space where needs may vary from project-to-project. Your unreserved space might fluctuate from extra cooking space to craft project center to guest room to impromptu dance floor. So next time you find yourself facing a empty room, why not take it lie? Image via Bo-laget.

The Benefits of Sparsity

It's easy to accumulate. Piles and piles and piles. That's why we always like to take the time to stop and appreciate those noble few who seem to avoid the trap. You may notice this UK home is lousy with character, without feeling stuffy or preciousThe rooms have a clarity not necessarily through their minimalist design, but through the purposefulness of their contents. Every room has a focus; The den with its windows, kitchen with its farm table, and the office with its books. We think there's a successful design formula in there somewhere, and we want to spread the word. Photos via Light Locations.