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An attractive… hose reel? Yep, and this one is made from high-gauge aluminum, powder-coated in white, black, or silver. Will this make watering plants or washing the car easier? Probably not, but you’ll at least like the look of the hose in its home.
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You’re familiar with citronella and its insect repelling properties, but have you ever seen it hung in a coil, like a strange sort of light fixture? Probably not, and that in itself is worth our attention, or at least a nod of appreciation.
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You know all about the golden ratio, and appreciate its premise, so why not have some sticky notes that pays homage to the tradition? Four different sizes of notes are included in one pad, so you can have whatever size you need right at your fingertips.
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You can make your own deconstructed, utilitarian lighting, but will your attempt look as good as these Hiline pieces? And, while we’re considering your skills, let’s reflect on the price of the Hiline Spotlight, Sconce, and Pendant, and think about if it’s worth the time and effort to make your own, or if it’s best to just support someone else that’s doing it right. I vote on the latter.
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Itching for a roof garden? Or a herb patch on your patio? The Fairmount Tile Planters make that a real possibility, as you can grow your garden in a modular way that’s easy to assemble and easy to transport. Each aluminum tile is 12″x12″; you get four tiles in each pack along with metal tab connectors and rubber feet. Line them up in a row or make a large block in your backyard (or on your roof!) and know that you can easily move them should the need arise.
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You don’t think you need a flashlight until you do, so, make sure you have one at the ready, just in case. And, if you have to have a flashlight, why not make it the Signal Flashlight by Sylvain Willenz? It’s made from aluminum and silicone and has a handy USB rechargeable battery that powers an ultra-bright LED. As a bonus, you can pick your favorite color option (you know, to match your decor).
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There’s something special about irregular rugs. It’s the unexpected shape, so different from the regular rectangle, that leads the eye around the rug’s circumference and lends a sense of playfulness. Grain’s Duo Rug combines two shapes to create one; each shape is composed of a different braiding technique, adding a subtle textural difference.
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Spending close to $200 on a cheese grater may sound ridiculous, but then you’ve never seen how serious I am about cheese. This Bari Cheese Grater combines a grater with a serving dish; this cuts down on dishes needed, of course, but it also elevates your fresh parmesan into a proper experience. A glass lid keeps grated cheese fresh- that’s no small thing if you’re serious about your cheddar (haha).
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Correct me if I’m wrong, but it’s hard to find an interesting piece of art under $50. This Clouds Poster by Debbie Carlos is pretty much just what it looks like: an image of clouds printed on a plotter, which is a large format printer primarily used to produce architectural and engineering prints. The rougher image is made of a series of dots, just like images from newspapers or magazines. The photograph is visible when viewed from at least a few feet away.
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Trivets! If you don’t have a few lying around for hot dishes, then snap up some of these. The silicone OYOY Gotoku Trivets have geometric shapes and nice colors, so they’ll complement your crockery and linens for a nice mix. Get a couple for intimate dinners, or get a bunch for handling a larger spread.
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Blankets in July? WTF, right? Yeah, well, it’s cold somewhere right now, and someone is going to want a soft, cozy throw to warm their toes. Plus, summer won’t last forever, and these throws by ZigZagZurich (designed by Nathalie Du Pasquier & George Sowden, founder members of Memphis movement) are relatively inexpensive and very much pattern-fantastic.
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Why not employ the same grips of the BMX bicycle to a flashlight? You don’t want to drop it on your toes, after all, especially not in a dark, potentially scary room when there’s no electricity. It’s a practical, tactile solution to sweaty palms.
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How about some cork containers for plants and such? There’s several sizes to suit your needs and you know that every plant will be pleased as punch to have a home in such a sustainable container. There’s also lidded Canisters (with cherry or walnut tops) for special sundries and a specific Coffee Canister ($125) that comes with a scoop.
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It’s hard to get too excited by a magazine rack, unless having your current stack of books and magazines stacked up perfectly straight is exciting (no one is judging you, promise). A handle on this rack makes carting your stack from the living room to office or bedroom easy, which might just make you a more well-rounded reader. The simple, futuristic styling is pretty perfect.
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Another brewing stand for coffee? I know, I’m getting a little tired of seeing them everywhere too, but they’re just so darn appealing. Kinto’s Brewer Stand set includes a heat-resistant glass holder, server, and brewer along with a stainless steel (with tin coating) filter and walnut stand. Would it be crazy to use it as a vase when not brewing coffee? Hmm.
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