bltd

Designer Henry Wilson takes the classic and ubiquitous anglepoise lamp and updates it with both technology and handcrafted elements. First the lamp itself is rewired for a cooler and more efficient LED bulb, then, either a ceramic or glass shade replaces the original. This is an extremely limited edition of 20, and will sell for $940. However, for $670 you can also supply your own anglepoise lamp to be updated by Wilson. I’d rather not mix up any words or intent, so here is the designer’s statement on Led Anglepoise in his own words: (more…)

If you’re fond of traveling, this notebook will display your wanderlust anytime you jot down a note or draw a sketch. Each one is one-of-a-kind, as the cover is a unique map from somewhere around the world. There’s 48 pages of 100% recycled paper (with rounded corners to prevent dog-earing, of course).

design: Contexture Design
manufacture: Made in Canada
materials: 100% recycled paper; reclaimed map cover. Staple-bound.
dimensions: 5.25″ wide x 8″ tall; contains 48 pages

The more gadgets we depend on, unfortunately, also means an endless amount of cables and adapters, with never enough power outlets to plug them all in. The FlipIt USB Charger is a device that solves the issue in a very unique way, by “leeching” off an existing plug and drawing enough current to power charge USB devices. Pretty sneaky! While useful at home, I see it particularly being handy while on the go, for you have the reassurance that when you’re traveling you always have a USB port to charge your devices, regardless if there’s an outlet available!
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For any tea or coffee purist, you’ll know that a good canister is a must in order to keep your key ingredient fresh. These hand made canisters are from Kaikado, a family in Kyoto that has kept the technique alive since 1875. It takes more than 130 processes to complete one single canister. Available in Copper, Brass, or Tin. See below for more pictures and sizes.
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I realize I have a predilection for home accessories that would fit in a seven or eight year old kid’s room (see newly posted Ohoy wallpaper, and bltd tag: moon, just to name a couple of examples), and that’s probably why I can’t ignore this moon clock*. It’s glow-in-the-dark, of course, and was designed using 65 different actual photographs of the moon. It’s a shame those clips are there at the edges, but maybe one could ignore them, as they are rather small.
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Nice. This commercial-quality two-piece cutting board brings modularity to the kitchen. One side of each panel is smooth, so when used together you have one large flat prep area. On the other side of one panel there’s a bread surface and a juice groove on the other, so you’re pretty much covered for any cutting surface. Used alone or together, you can configure the boards to suit your preparation needs. Available in Natural with a Slate core or Slate with a Natural core. (And, yes, it will fit in the dishwasher.)
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In this day and age of never ending cords for our multiple gadgets and their myriad functions, it’s nice to see a charger camouflaged in an old book. Yes, for true (sentimental) bibliophiles, it hurts a tiny bit to know that a book has been put out to pasture, but it’s certainly a relief to know it’s not been chucked into some landfill, and it’s doing a different job altogether. The book acts as housing for a charger (it’s a solid unit), and means there’s no losing the cord behind your nightstand or desk.
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Do you recognize a certain designer’s hand in the design of this mortar and pestle? Perhaps if you note the rounded forms… similar to the iconic Ball and Bubble Chair? Yep, it’s Eero Aarnio. Alessi has made the Aroma Mortar and Pestle in stoneware, with a notable thick body and a cylindrical pedestal. The Pestle features a round handle (= comfortable) and an oval pestle (which keeps it from rolling around on the counter) with a matte finish for more effective use.

Mortar with pestle in stoneware.
DIA 4″ H 4.25″

Add this to your desktop tools wish list pronto (along with the Eraser Brush). It’s a ruler and bookmark all in one, which makes it perfect for planners or journals. Make note that this is marked with mm and 1:500 scale, as you’ll not find your usual inch markings.
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Hrm. After the recent Urban Outfitters debacle (you know the one), it’s a bit hazy as to whether one should patronize the shop, yet it’s unavoidable to feature this lamp by none other than Rich Brilliant Willing. You know they did some store fixtures (via designboom), but actual exclusive lighting at a price point under $100? I had no idea.
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If you’re handy enough with a sewing machine (or needle and thread) you could whip one of these up in no time, but for anyone else that would prefer immediate gratification, these cloud pillows by Donna Wilson are slightly on sale from Tate Online Shop. Also, if you’re into the whole cloud shaped pillow thing, check out the super cute Giant Ricestorm Cushion from noodoll (it has a tiny lightning bolt in its hand).

Lambswool cloud shaped cushion.

Highlight those presentation notes without bleeding through the page, and minus the fumes. The Eco Highighter Yellow is a dry alternative to highlighter markers. I have a feeling a plain yellow colored pencil would work too, but this one does have eco-cred; it uses no ink solvents, no volatile organic compounds, and is fully biodegradable.
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So, take a look at this vintage inspired task lamp. Industrial and quite authentic looking, isn’t it? Thankfully, there’s no worries as to old wires and faulty electrics, as this baby is brand new. Three swivel ball joints allows for proper lighting while the heavy stone base keeps things stable.
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Give the gift of flowers, freshly printed flowers, that is. Designed by Sandra Bautista, Fresh Flowers is a 32 page newspaper with flowers replacing headlines. It would be a good gift for someone who has an appreciation for art and design, and definitely less tacky than plastic flowers. I personally would forgo the vase and dedicate a place on the wall for these and rotate in a new print every few weeks.
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This rug needs Also sprach Zarathustra, Op.30 to accompany each new viewing. It’s a moon rug, so therefore I’m obligated to wax poetic nonsense regardless of whether you or I can afford it (if I could afford it, I would pretend I was an astronaut every single day). Interestingly enough, it’s actually a re-edition from the ’80s that comes from Oscar Tusquets’ La Tierra and La Luna rugs. Photographic techniques have improved since then, obviously, allowing the moon in its waxing phase to have more definition as well as having browns and beiges to give a warmer appearance.
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