This sushi set certainly evokes a lily pond; I like how the forms are handled simply and how they manage to be fun in an understated, elegant way.

It is important to remember that the objects presented here, just like the ones in the Chin Family, characters or flowers and fruits, each performing the roles of domestic household objects, are made partly in hand-decorated plastic and partly in fine bone china, also hand-decorated. The magic of Giovannoni’s design lies in the fact that these objects recall the grace of 18th century ceramic trinkets, while at the same time being utterly contemporary...

Sushi set composed of: plate and chopsticks in melamine, small plate for soy sauce and chopsticks holder in fine bone china. Hand-decorated.
$94.00, Buy it here.

[posted by katie]

This delicate leaf patterned cup is available in black leaf on a white background or white leaf on a black background, so you can pick whatever floats your boat.

"The Leaf Cup is a remarkable piece because of its artist quality pattern. The silhouette edge is finely detailed, as if actual leaves were placed around the cup. This porcelain cup is finished in a matte back glaze."

Material: Porcelain
2" dia. x 3.5"H
Designed by: Masahiro Mori
Produced by: Design Mori, Japan
Black Leaf or White Leaf
$18.00, Buy it here.

[posted by katie]

If you're serious about your BBQ prep, these tools and side table by Carl Mertens will set you up properly.

The Carl Mertens Mano BBQ Side Table puts a sturdy, durable surface near the grill for quick access to tools and other grill-side essentials. The Mano BBQ Side Table was designed by Axel Wowereit and features stainless steel.

Side Table, $300.00, Buy it here.
16.5" l, 12.6" w, 25.2" h

• High-grade 18/10 Stainless Steel frame.
• White Laminate table top.
• Opening for hooking BBQ tools.

BBQ Tools, $220.00, Buy it here.

• High-grade 18/10 Stainless Steel.
• One Fork, one Spatula, and one pair of Tongs.
• Hook on end of each tool for hanging.
• Storage pouch that converts into an apron.

[posted by katie]

These table linens by Chilewich have such a nice pattern; they almost have the look of a modernized lace (maybe).

"They look delicate, but have the strength and durability of all Chilewich's products. Beautiful, durable and washable."

Available in Black, White, Citron, Grass, Smoke.

Pressed Vinyl Dots Placemat, $15.00, Buy it here.
Dimensions: Rectangle: W 14" x L 19"
Sold in packs of 2

Pressed Vinyl Dots Table Runner, $24.00, Buy it here.
Dimensions: W 14" x L 72"

[posted by katie]

If a kitchen utensil set can be described as lovely, then this one is.

...his design for his 5-piece Kitchen Utensil Set culminates with different thickness along the laminated handle and has a modern catering feel. Beautiful and highly functional, the set comprises ladle, spoon,fork,spatula and skimmer, in a choice of satin or polished stainless steel.

[via Remodelista]

[posted by katie]

The etched floral pattern in these short tumbler glasses create a lovely effect.

by Jakub Berdych for Qubus design studio (2007)
3" dia. x 3.75"

[posted by katie]

It's strange how such a simple 'tweak' can update an old pattern into something that complements the modern table setting.

A lovely combination of east and west, the Chinese Whisper features standard willow patterns on standard ceramic plates, cups and saucers. Alone, this would seem rather common, but with a simple tweak in manufacturing, the patterns are mismatched, adding a clean, contemporary edge to a classic design.

Small plate: 7.75" dia.
Large plate: 10.5" dia.
Cup: 3" dia. x 2.75"H
Saucer: 5.75" dia.

[posted by katie]

We've posted the Mikoto Knife Block in red before, but this black one caught my eye...I love the lacquered look.

By contributing to the preservation of the environment and continually searching for new and innovative ideas to make beautiful products out of bamboo this company has been one of our favorites from day one. The knife blocks are another example of great and functional design; because the blocks are filled with bamboo skewers, all your knives will fit anywhere in the block. All products are designed in France and produced by skillful artisans in Vietnam.

[posted by katie]

If you like looking at floor plans, you might just have to get some of these plates and platters (despite the possibility of distraction during dinner time).

Floor Plan Terrace Plate 9" Square: $16.95, Buy it here.
Floor Plan Penthouse Platter 12"X16": $32.95, Buy it here.
Floor Plan Railroad Rect. Tray 6"X12": $16.95, Buy it here.
Floor Plan Duplex 11" Square: $20.95, Buy it here.
Floor Plan Studio Plate 5" Square: $7.95, Buy it here.
Floor Plan Luxury Platter 14" Square (not shown): $32.95, Buy it here.

[via Dwell Magazine]

[posted by katie]

The delicate smattering of dots add such a nice touch to these tumblers.

Petite tumblers are made from a creamy white or matte black porcelain and handpainted with a constellation of dots. The shapes vary from almost cylindrical (white) to fairly oval (black) due to how the porcelain behaves in the kiln. Fits nicely in the hand to hold your morning orange juice.

Designer: White Bike Ceramics, Brooklyn, NY
3 1/2" high, 2 3/8" diameter (note: picture on right shows large tumblers)

[posted by katie]