News And Updates
This year at ICFF, I had the privelege of meeting many talented designers like Tom Dixon and seeing pieces from established companies like Vitra and Artemide. However, those that impressed me the most were the younger designers, particularly those of the Pratt Institute and of smaller firms. These forward-thinking creative talents showcased their use of materials and their understanding of practicality. There is no doubt that each of these individuals will go far and do good work. These are the designers to watch out for.
Joerg Student/Frank Shum
Luximo LED Lamp
Winner of the 2008 Lighting of Tomorrow Competition
At a glance this piece looks sturdy and efficient and it is. When you dig beneath the surface you find that California based designers Joerg Student and Frank Shum have put real thought into this piece.
- -Full range of motion.
- -Fully dimmable
- -The aluminum body and base are 100% recyclable.
- -9 LEDs make this piece 6 times more effecient than a 75w halogen bulb and just as bright. The LEDs produce a warm even light.
- -LEED certified and exceeds Energy Star requirements
- -Ease of use
Evan Dewhirst
Buoy Chair
I’ll admit it’s hard to create a chair that offers movement, stability, and comfort. Not to mention it has to look good. Designer Evan Dewhirst has done just that. Said to have been inspired by designers who work at tall drafting tables, Dewhirst came up with a surprsing solution. The Buoy Chair as seen in the BKLYN DESIGNS installation at ICFF 2009.
The chair requires the user to balance using both legs while seated. What this does is it allows for quick and easy movement. It increases the user’s reach and flexibility. The piece is also quite ergonomic and allows for amazing circulation in the lower extremeties. Above all, it provides relief for the weary. The piece is simple and yet by studying the piece one can tell that a lot work went into it. The Buoy Chair uses green manufacturing techniques and recycles products and materials that may otherwise be discarded.
It’s quite the balancing act to create a piece of furniture that offers constant interaction between the user and product in a practical way. Some have tried and failed in either design or execution. Dewhirst has succeeded admirably.
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DWR Boston June Design Event has been posted.
Design from the Inside Out
Wednesday, June 3, 6:30-9pm
DWR Boston welcomes William Spear, a renowned feng shiu expert, for a lecture tailored to builders, architects, designers and homeowners who wish to create harmonious environments that incorporate practicality, common sense and timeless principles of this ancient art. Spear will be available for questions about how to proactively apply the principles of feng shui in your space. Refreshments will be served.
Come and join the Design Boston team as we learn about the fine art of feng shiu.
RSVP to boston@dwr.com by June 1.
Now that I’ve had a chance to review all of the materials from ICFF 2009, here are a few pieces that I was particularly impressed with from Blu Dot,
Ever the darling of the design community, Blu Dot has always maintained a particular playfulness to their designs and honesty. If you’ve not seen a squirrel assemble their Real Good Chair then you’re missing out.
Limited Edition Real Good Chair, Copper
Blu Dot has given their most popular chair a facelift in this copper version. A limited edition of 100 have been produced so act fast. The copper finish for this piece effectively distinguishes it from its progenitor and dare I say it gives the piece a vintage feel.