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(via twentytwowords)

Such a small link list again, I know, but it’s slim pickings nowadays with limited time to browse for all things interesting. If you have a link or an item you think we should’ve posted by now, do email us (contact(at)betterlivingthroughdesign.com) and let us know. It’d be nice to hear from you.

Picking out decent (i.e. modern) bathroom accessories can be a pain, mostly because there’s just not a lot to choose from in an affordable price range. That’s why these silicone bands and hooks by Josh Owen are nice to see- they’re very affordable and fun in an unstuffy, modern way. Use the bands and hooks for towels, newspapers, scrub brushes, etc. There’s also a toilet paper holder (with a magnetic catch) and two silicone gloved mirrors to complete the collection.
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Remember Matthew Hofmann from the HofArc Airstream Renovation? Well, he’s recently opened an all-Airstream hotel in downtown Santa Barbara, California. Four vintage Airstream trailers from the ’50s to ’70s have all undergone interior renovations- three have completely updated modern interiors and one has been restored to its original splendor with new finishes, systems and appliances. Called the Santa Barbara Auto Camp, each trailer is available for around $120 – $150 per night. More images, background and info from HofArc below.

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So, without looking at the title, what do you think this is? A weapon? A tool? Perhaps both? It’s a small bottle opener, and one with a hexagonal opening and faceted polygonal silhouette at that. Designed by Bec Brittain (she has worked with Lindsey Adelman, who you’ve heard of by now, and has her own excellent lighting designs). For an extra $5, Ms. Brittain will add a monogram with up to 7 characters, including any combination of letters, numbers, a period, and a heart. Talk about an excellent gift for anyone with an appreciation of geometry- it’s a no brainer.
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Somehow I missed that Bluelounge, the cord/cable/charging station company, has gotten into the bag and backpack game. While backpacks can be hit or miss when it comes to fashion, this one makes the grade for its simple exterior style and very functional interior. There’s a neoprene cushioned laptop compartment as well as a custom iPad pocket- so both of your devices are adequately protected- along with ergonomic shoulder straps. And, for extra credit, the fabric is made of 100% recycled PET plastic bottles.
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Yep, they’re salad servers. Not for the more traditional tabletop, of course, but for those of us that prefer the very modern take on just about everything, they tick the right box. There’s something a little science fiction about them, don’t you think? As if they’d look right at home in 2050, if robots haven’t taken over salad serving by then. There’s also a serving set to match, fyi.
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If you fall in love with all things angular, here’s a trapezoid tray that will tickle your fancy. While it was made to live on the accompanying Bias Large Ottoman, you might do better by mixing things up a bit and putting it on top of a credenza or dresser to corral smaller items. However, do keep in mind this is one large tray (32.25″ W X 22.5″ D), so it might only fit on a large ottoman if your other case goods tend towards the small size.
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Mainly this lamp has resided in the in-case-I-inherit-money inspiration folder, but if you possess great skills in money management, maybe one day you’ll have one for your very own. Designed by Jean Prouvé in collaboration with Charlotte Perriand in 1950, the Potence lamp provides overhead lighting on a pivoting swivel. The single metal rod extends almost 7 feet from the wall, which allows illumination in a 180-degree range without the fuss of taking up floor space.
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My goodness, take a look at the savings on this cobalt desk by John Reeves. With a regular price of $1895, the sale price of $1099 looks like one steal of a deal, especially considering that the bright blue color is thanks to lacquered panels (lacquer = work). Smooth, self closing runners and well considered proportions give this desk a refined feel, while the drawers and door give you access to appropriate storage space for a home office or dressing area.
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Also from Ladies & Gentlemen Studio are these simple Cylinder Shakers. No messing around with extraneous design elements here- just the bare-bones cylinder will do, thank you very much, with a cork stopper plug. Right now it looks like they have the Brass and Copper in stock, both with an untreated radial brushed finish that will patina over time.

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It’s not often that a tray will make you sit up and take notice, but this Perimeter Tray designed by by Dylan Davis and Jean Lee of Ladies and Gentlemen Studio has some of us wondering if we have an extra $200 to conjure out of our wallets. A removable marble plate is perfect for cheese, if you choose to use it in the kitchen/dining regions of your home. Choose between an aluminum (red + black) or brass (white + brass) frame.
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As it’s January, most of us will find ourselves huddled around a hot bowl of soup for lunch or dinner. So, of course, let’s look again at the Thermo-Pot from Black + Blum. Think of it as an updated thermos; its stainless steel flask keeps drinks/soups/meals hot for up to six hours and an airtight cork capper ensures a vacuum seal. The spoon is magnetically attached to the side for convenience.
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Very few people nowadays know how to fix things around the house, and if you’re one of them, you’d do well to consider this book. 150 tips are included, from starting your car to repairing lamps and appliances. There are nice large photos that show details along with succinct descriptions with each project. A little tinkering- when you know what you’re doing- can save you money on repair fees and give you the extra satisfaction of self sufficiency. So, instead of complaining about the lack of knowledge you got from your elders, read up and do it yourself.

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In your search for desk accessories, don’t forget about Scanwood’s various pieces. It looks like Cooper Hewitt Shop has most of the collection except for the Pen Holder, which you can find at AllModern ($18.25). Individual links and prices below.

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What’s the big deal about large, spherical ice molds? Well, besides them looking cooler than a bunch of small cubes, they melt slower, meaning they’ll cool your drink without watering it down (as much as a bunch of small cubes). And, if you’re a little skeptical about how well the sphere holds up, I can personally attest after 2 weeks of festive imbibing (hic!) these Tovolo ice spheres have kept their shape well past the last drop of each and every drink I’ve had. They’re also stackable, leak-free, and won’t tip in the freezer.
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