I have Version II of this Naoto Fukasawa humidifier and I love it.

"The goal of the Japanese design house Plusminuszero is to turn everyday objects into art... and, as anyone who lives in a dry climate knows, humidifiers aren't exactly the most aesthetic object in your house. That's all about to change with the Humidifier Version III. With its compact frame and beautifully smooth surfaces, it not only works perfectly to control the climate but actually looks great while doing its job."

[posted by kris]

We've probably all seen this before as a concept piece, but they're now in production and taking pre-orders for shipment in April.

The Phonofone amplifies the sound that comes out of your earbuds and is made entirely from ceramic. Not only does it function entirely without electricity (other than the Ipod, ofcourse), but it's quite a stunning sculptural piece as well.

[posted by kris]

I was actually looking for something like this recently because I read before I go to bed and then I'm too tired to turn off the light--you know the story--and when I finally get up to turn the light out, it wakes me up a little then I can't go to bed.

I think we've all seen this before, but I had sort of forgotten about it because maybe it was only a concept piece before? I can't recall. But in any case, it's available now.

"Another "instant" classic from Tobias Wong. Melding wit with functionality, this wireless light switch can control any light fixture (or any electrical device) within 100 feet. Attach the remote component to the fixture of your choice and simply "flip the switch"."

Open edition in Chrome and a Limited Edition of 500 in 14k Gold.

Or, as one of our faithful readers wrote in, you can get one of these as an alternative.

[posted by kris]

Sustainably grown wooden radio which is compatible with your ipod.

"Singgih Kartono chooses wood for his radios not just based on aesthetics but on his appreciation of wood's simplicity and organic vitality. The Magno radio combines the most current mp3 player compatible electronics with sustainably grown woods."

[posted by kris]

In most cases, I'd rather have 1 item that performs two functions instead of 2 that each only perform one. But for some reason, listening to iTunes on my computer doesn't really work for me while I'm using my computer. It slows down my computer a little and the speakers leave a little to be desired. I've been wanting a external way to listen to my iTunes library and I think this may just be it.

"The iYiYi system connects and charges all dockable iPods. Its precise digital tuner includes five FM and five AM station preset buttons, a 'seek' function, and built-in AM and FM antennas. The backlit display provides information on station tuning, the time, and the 20-minute sleep timer indicator. It all adds up to the ultimate home audio system for anyone looking for iPod and radio control in one unit. Available in black and white. Dimensions: 7.36"H x 11.88" W x 8.66" D. Weight: 6.33 lbs"

[posted by kris]

Look! It's the repurposing of a the candleholder shape into a flashlight. This is pretty cool.

"This flashlight can be perfectly concealed on your bookcase or mantle top. It uses bright LED bulbs and is powered by 3 AA batteries (not included)."

[posted by kris]

Ever since Katie posted this sink over in our 'Remodel' section, I've been having fantasies about the perfect bathroom. I think this would fit in nicely.

[posted by kris]

Herman Miller has a new space aged heating and cooling solution which uses a patented, energy-efficient thermal technology to deliver both heating and cooling from a single, compact unit which consumes 90% less energy than a typical space heater.

"The C2 not only improves your comfort level, it filters the air around you by intercepting particles of dust, pollen and dander as small as five microns.

And, because the C2 is not a space heater, it doesn’t contain any exposed heating coils, chemicals or harmful emissions. No filling with water or recharging is necessary, and the filter is removable for cleaning. The unit will shut itself off after four hours, as an added energy saver. UL listed and plugs into a standard 110v AC. The C2 Climate Control is a fully licensed product of Herman Miller®, Inc."

[posted by kris]

This clever unit both hides a mess of wires and also conceals a power strip.

These are super alternatives to regular old plastic jewel cases. Out with the old plastic and in with recycled stuff, hurray! (Labels and templates are available for both.)

Resleeve:
"RESLEEVE is made of a rigid 16pt recycled bending chip board and has a round die-cut hole in the center to view the front of the disk. The back is solid, embossed with the message "RESLEEVE 100% Recycled". RESLEEVE is made from 100% Recycled Fibers (56% Post Consumer Recycled / 44% Post Industrial Recycled). Great for storing, protecting or used as a mailing envelope for your CDs." $16 for 50 sleeves

Replay Case:
"Each REPLAY case comes with two slots for two CDs / DVDs or a single disc and liner notes. Each comes debossed on the back with the REPLAY logo and 100% Recycled. REPLAYs look great plain or wrapping one of our brown kraft or recycled white laser labels around them. Choose from one of our free templates online to design your REPLAY's cover art." $32 for 50 cases

via [AT's unplggd.com] via [greenasathisle.com]

[posted by katie]