GRAY

And the GRAY Magazine Design of Choice Goes To...

2012-02-13T09:33:00.000-08:00

Image courtesy of Northwest Flower and Garden Show

This year, GRAY was given the great honor to award a display garden at the Northwest Flower & Garden Show a GRAY Magazine 'Design of Choice' Award. On Tuesday before the festivities began, the gang got together to check out all the fabulous gardens put together by many talented designers.

When we came across the garden design by Cascadian Edible Landscapes, we were immediately drawn to the idea of a homesteading family and the vision of a sustainable, functional and community driven lifestyle in an urban environment.From the delightfully re-purposed VW Van, to the inviting communal dining table and variety of edible plants, this garden reflects the contemporary Northwest values of living with purpose and style.

So, it was our pleasure to present Cascadian Edible Landscapes the first GRAY Magazine Design of Choice Award! Congratulations! In their own words:

A critical component of creating sustainable and livable cities is the proliferation of abundant and edible landscapes that reconnect urban dwellers with each other and the sources of their subsidence. The intent of this 99% edible garden is to be food and family oriented. It seeks to engage and delight a younger generation in the natural world, while bringing families and friends together at the table for food and conversation. This garden’s practical design engages all five senses, utilizing creative applications of recycled and affordable materials for today’s cost and environmentally conscious urban homesteading family.

Cascadian Edible Landscapes operates under the idea of "Eat Your Yard," and that's a really forward-thinking way of envisioning where landscaping can and is going in the future. It's becoming more important for families to eat organic, and often growing your own food is a fun, group activity, and cheap way to do it.

Their services range from consulting and design, to landscaping, to garden education. If you've been wanting to revamp your yard and add some places for a garden, don't forget to check out Cascadian Edible Landscapes. You won't regret it!

"Dear Designer" and NW Flower & Garden Show Giveaway!

2012-02-07T09:51:00.000-08:00

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Introducing our newest magazine column, "Dear Designer." Think "Dear Abby," but instead with a rotating panel of architects, interior designers, and many more, to be on hand to answer the reader's most burning questions. What are some awesome DIY projects to spruce up your home on a budget? What exactly is Deconstructivist Modern architecture? Is Feng Shui all it's cracked up to be? The sky's the limit, readers!

To kickstart our exciting new column, we're giving away tickets to the Northwest Flower & Garden Show Feb. 8-12! Simply leave a comment with a question for our "Dear Designer" column for a chance to win a set of tickets. The giveaway will run until we've given them all away, so we'll keep you all updated.

GRAY will also present a judged award to one of the Garden Creators (display gardens) called the "GRAY Design of Choice" on Feb. 7th. Our award will recognize the garden with the most creative, forward-thinking design—considering use of materials, spatial composition, uniqueness, functionality, a fresh aesthetic, and overall visual appeal. So all around you don't want to miss it.

We're looking forward to your questions!

**Update: This giveaway is now closed, but we are still taking "Dear Designer" questions! Thank you all for your participation.

Bellevue Towers Holiday Trunk Show

2011-12-29T11:52:00.000-08:00

Last month, the Bellevue Towers hosted a Holiday Trunk Show in a few of their luxury condo homes. Shoppers were able to enjoy checking out gifts and goods from City Flowers, Terra Bella, Alicia Peru, Orvis, Design 10301, Maison, Urban Dogs, Wee Tots, the Bellevue Arts Museum Store, Gourmet Blends, Masins Fine Furnishings, Blue Luna and Vue Society.

The living room of the penthouse model home. The penthouse interiors were provided by Masins Fine Furnishings and Interior Design.

Realty Trust's Marie Westom, Cyndi Saunders-White & Kelly Hurney prepare to greet guests visiting Bellevue Towers Holiday Trunk Show in early December.

Joelle Nesen, owner of Portland's Maison, brought an elegant selection of living room furniture

and accessories to Bellevue for the Holiday Trunk Show. With her is Realty Trust's Todd Prendergast.

Brent Sandlee, co-owner of Urban Dogs and one of numerous boutiques and purveyors that participated in the Bellevue Towers Holiday Trunk Show in early December, greets guests at the open house event.

Ira K. Glasser, investors' representative for Morgan Stanley, left, chats with Bellevue Towers residents Rebecca and Steen Bratner.

The Bellevue Towers penthouse model home features a master bedroom in neutral shades of cremes, grays and taupes. All of the furnishings and artwork were provided by Masins Fine Furnishings & Interior Design.

GRAY Gift Guide: Manly Man

2011-12-22T08:10:00.000-08:00

Still looking for stylish gifts for the manly man on your list? Here are some ideas he'll love.

Knit muffler, $58 at Pendleton.

Vim Beget Cervidae wallet, $225 at Blackbird.

Steelhead Seminar and Guided Excursion, $170 per person, Patrick's Fly Shop.

Baxter of California Bravado 2 Eau de Cologne, $80 at Ward&Co.

Tradesman bag, $168 at Schoolhouse Electric.

Hex bottle opener, $48 at Iacoli McAllister.

Avalanche magazine, complete boxed set, $300 at Object.

Tweezers, $28 from PockeTweez.

GRAY Gift Guide: The Jet-Setter

2011-12-21T09:35:00.000-08:00

We all know someone who travels…a lot. And whether it’s for business or pleasure,
we’ve got gift ideas for the person who’s always up in the air.

I Was Here’ Travel Journal, keep track of every trip with this handy journal, $16.95

Filson Tote Bag, the perfect, no-fuss carry-on, $105

Retro Super Future Sunglasses, for those visiting sunnier climes, $150

DODOcase for J. Crew iPad 2, protect your newest gadgets with a chic and
durable case, $84.95

Colombo Optic Alarm Clock, small enough to tuck into the corner of a suitcase, $78

Table Globe, great for planning future trips—just spin the globe and go! $150

Butter London Nail Polish, the best travel accessory? Pretty nails! $14 each

Jet Set Coasters, raise a glass to international travel, $48

Africa Notecard Set, six beautiful letterpress notecards with traditional African designs, long live snail mail, $17

GRAY Gift Guide: Etsy Addict

2011-12-20T00:10:00.000-08:00

So... You need a gift that's cool, unique, handcrafted, and locally made? To the ~~Batmobile~~ computer! Browse everyone's favorite online marketplace, Etsy, to find your friends a thoughtful gift that's right up their one-of-a-kind alley.

Geometric shape laser-cut wood and 14-karat gold chain necklace, $40 at sadiedesignsca.

Minimalist ash candelabra, $27.30 at TallyLocke.

Yes Dear 8x10 print, $19 at pixelcloud.

Set of four Labyrinth napkins, $36 at soraam.

Feathered tassel earrings in charcoal and gold, $79 at freshtangerine.

Old-fashioned shaving soap, $5 at MrKittysSoapShop.

Reclaimed wood planter, $31 at andrewsreclaimed.

Loft Chair, $580 at Chadhaus.

Hello 2012 wall calendar, $14 at vicinitystudio.

Set of seven coat hooks, $95 at Merkled.

GRAY Gift Guide: The Professional

2011-12-19T05:26:00.000-08:00

"The professional" sounds like "The Godfather" and the import is just as serious: This gift-receiver is jet-setting and multitasking and only has time for gifts of elegant utility.

Toasts by Paul Dickson, to master those awkward toasting moments, $19.95.

Punkt Alarm Clock, so that the early bird gets the job done, $125

"Puget Sound on the Pacific Coast" by Albert Pierstadt, for classy office art, $19-$119
Fleur de sel caramels by Jonboy. Sweet treats for the professional or her co-workers, $8.99

Cool Coat for post-deal celebrations, $30

Oyster Shell Dish, for paperclips and thumb-tacks, $34

Hand-typeset agenda book. Never miss a chance to network, $58

Rocking Whiskey Glasses, $32 for a set of six. Set the stage for Mad Men-like mid-afternoon happy hours.

Luggage Tags by Linnea Design. A reminder of home while traveling, $5

Zoka Coffee Holiday Blend of coffee beans for the professional coffee addict, $15.95

GRAY Gift Guide: Classy Ladies and Gentleman

2011-12-16T09:56:00.000-08:00

You know that friend that everyone just calls, classy--for lack of a better word? Often this person is the hardest to shop for, so here are some ideas to get the person on your list who loves the "good life."

Alphabet Letter Paperweights designed by chalkboard artist Dana Tanamachi. Lovely to the letter. $8

Chain Dessert Plate Set of 4. No weakest link here. $60

Sling suspender. The modern gentleman will be ready for action. $40

Gold Playing Cards. Royal flushes are made that much sweeter. $20

Herringbone Curry Personal Notecards (10). $16

Handmade Ceramic Leaf Candleholder. Gilding the lily. $43

Claude Dozorme Cheese Knife Set. Cheese please! $99

Imperial Trellis Stocking Collection. Hung with immaculate care. $45

GRAY Gift Guide: Trendy Tykes

2011-12-15T16:01:00.001-08:00

Not sure what to get that trendy tyke in your life? Here’s a great round up from around the Northwest!

Rocking Rabbit. A modern take on the classic rocking horse. $190

First Impressions Baby Hats. Lions, and tigers, and bears, oh my! $15.98

Long Johns. For Christmas morning. $38

I'MStillME Mail Set. Bring back old-fashioned snail mail! $50

A Long Piece of String. For bedtime stories. $16

Chef Role Play Costume Set. You might even get a tasty meal out of this one. $30

Dwell Boudoir Pillow - Owls Sky. Put a bird on it! $35

Joy Leg Warmers. Keep those baby legs cute and warm! $12

Bike Onesie. A baby fashion statement that just screams Northwest. $34

Pura Kiki stainless steel baby bottle . Safe and environmentally friendly. $18 CA

Organic Holiday Gift Sets for Baby. Cute and warm for your little elves. $30

Simple Candle Care

2011-12-09T09:54:00.000-08:00

The first issue of Gray is now live! We got some amazing tips on simple candle care from Lynette Vertoch, owner of Cameos & Crowns in Madrona, that we thought made a great addition to our Guest story starting on page 48 of the magazine. Head over to graymag.net to see the digital issue, and follow these great tips to make your nice candles last!

Be sure to buy a quality product. It really is true with candles—you get what you pay for.

Be sure your burning candle is kept out of drafts. If not, this could lead to smoking and sooting, as well as making your candle burn much quicker.

Before lighting, always trim your wick to ¼ inch before burning – always. If the wick is too long, the flame will burn bigger and your candle won't last as long.

Burn your candle out to the outer rim. If you do not do this you will get a “tunnel” down the center causing you a poor burn and much less burn time.

If your candle gets a “bloom” (like a mushroom on the top of the wick), blow out your candle, trim the wick to ¼ inch and then relight it. Be sure not to drop it into the candle but to remove it. This “bloom” can also contribute to smoking and sooting. It is the residue of the fragrance and the wax that has been pulled up the wick and accumulated.

When not burning try to place out of direct sunlight. This will help keep the color from fading or the fragrance oils from discoloring.

Choosing the right fragrance for the right room is important, too. Burning a heavily scented candle on a dinner table is not very appetizing, while a subtle herb scented candle could actually add to the dining experience.

Also keep in mind size – a votive in a large room won’t do a lot but would be lovely in a powder room.

Most of all, enjoy!

Camoes & Crowns, 1137 34th Ave., Seattle. (206) 462-1206)

West Elm’s Holiday Charity Event

2011-12-01T10:24:00.000-08:00

Why, hello December! Where did you come from? Time to deck the halls, light the
menorah, and surround ourselves with friends, family, and loved ones. West Elm’s
Seattle store is kicking off the holiday season with a Holiday Charity Event featuring
local Etsy sellers.

Where: West Elm Seattle store

When: December 1, 6:00-9:00 p.m.

Details: This event will benefit the Ronald McDonald House. There will be light
refreshments, and a local Etsy craft leader on hand to demo beautiful DIY ornaments to
will adorn the tree that West Elm is creating for the Ronald McDonald House.

The event will also feature an “Etsy Mini-Market” for all your holiday shopping needs!
Five local Etsy sellers will be setting up shop to sell their handmade goods during the
event. The sellers are:

• Simply Hue Designs (Art Prints)

• Elisabeth Space (Jewelry)

• Uzura (Eco-Friendly Clothing/Bags)

• sidney ann (Accessories)

• Manzanita Kids (Wood Toys)

Want to help give back with West Elm, but can’t make the event? That’s okay, West Elm
is also hosting an ornament drive through December 4. Drop by the store and pick up
an ornament to help decorate the Ronald McDonald House tree, or drop off some gifts
to fill the baskets around the tree. The gifts will be delivered on December 5.

DIY Nautical Rope Mirror

2011-11-02T07:02:00.000-07:00

The rope trend has been making its rounds recently, from rope bowls to rope-knot doorstops to rope wall art. But in this trend more than others, I think: isn't that something you could do yourself? Well, GRAY readers, my mom did.

After designing and building a new house on the South Sound this year, my parents are faced with a shrinking budget and simultaneous need for furnishings. The result is DIY creativity that is better than what you can buy (in a humble daughter's opinion).

My mom wanted a nautical-inspired mirror, so she took an old, generic wood-frame mirror that she didn't know what to do with, bought some rope and wood glue, and made a rope mirror. My dad curved off the edges. And I have to say, I am quite proud and inspired! What say you, readers?

George Nelson at the Bellevue Arts Museum

2011-11-01T12:56:00.000-07:00

George Nelson American National Exhibition, Moscow, 1959

Design lovers, this one's for you.

Now through February 12, 2012, the Bellevue Arts Museum shines the spotlight on one of the seminal figures in American Modernism with the exhibition,"George Nelson: Architect, Writer, Designer, Teacher."

"Featuring more than 220 objects, including furniture, lamps, clocks, graphic works, architectural models, films, prints and a full-scale partial reconstruction of the 1959 American National Exhibition in Moscow, this retrospective renders a comprehensive portrait of Nelson and his many activities, acknowledging his prominent position in the world of design over nearly four decades." -BAM website

From Left: George Nelson, Bubble Lamps, c. 1952; George Nelson, Pretzel Armchair, Sammlung Vitra Design Museum

This retrospective was compiled by the Vitra Design Museum in 2008 to celebrate the year George Nelson would have turned 100 years old, and the BAM is the first museum in the Pacific Northwest to host the exhibition. Bravo to the BAM--we would love even more design-related exhibits to come to the Northwest from now on!

From Left: George Nelson Ball Clock, 1948;
George Nelson, Marshmallow Sofa, 1956

All Images from Vitra Design Museum Archiv, courtesy Bellevue Arts Museum

Important dates:

Nov. 3: Curator Talk: Jochen Eisenbrand, Curator of George Nelson exhibition, 5pm to 6pm. This event is currently sold out, empty seats will be released just before the event.

Nov. 4: Free First Friday Lecture: Cristina de Almeida lectures on George Nelson, 6:30pm to 7:30pm

Nov. 17: A Night with Nelson, 5:30pm-8pm

Nov. 20: The Way I See It: Artist Tours at BAM featuring Amy Masgai discussing George Nelson, 2pm-3pm

Nov. 29: George Nelson tour with BAM Curator Nora Atkinson, 11:30am to 12pm

Dec. 18: The Way I See It: Artist Tours at BAM featuring Keith Miller and Beth Marie Miller discussing George Nelson, 2pm to 3pm

Happening at Click! Design That Fits

2011-10-13T10:20:00.000-07:00

We relish the ability to bring you personal updates of the local stores we love. We caught up recently with John Smersh of Click! Design That Fits in West Seattle to give us the lowdown on some exciting things happening in the store this season!

Squirrel Match Strike by Jonathan Adler

First of all, Click! is bringing in the Jonathan Adler line. The timing was right for the store, and after having watched Mr. Adler's brand over the years, Smersh believes that the designs capture something about the Click! aesthetic, being "evocative of a previous era, but fresh and updated."

Coffee Press by Forlife and glass Weekly Planner by three by three

Expect to see more beautiful and functional kitchen and tabletop accessories by Swedish company Sagaform, Forlife coffee presses, baby gifts by Wee Gallery, glass and bamboo magnet dry-erase boards by Seattle company three by three, zombie monster mugs by Lollipop Pottery, and a forest of modern balsawood trees in the window for holiday!

Birthday by Poppi

Click is also planning to do more in-store events with designers, such as a trunk show for the popular Poppi Rings, and the cookbook signing the store had in September with food writer Amy Pennington, author of Urban Pantry and Apartment Gardening.
," and "Apartment Gardening."
Don't miss their anniversary party this Saturday, October 15th!

Thanks John and Frances, and stay tuned for more updates on the stores in your neighborhood!

West Elm Seattle

2011-10-11T10:40:00.000-07:00

The dust has settled from last week's huge grand opening of Seattle's first West Elm store, located in South Lake Union. They pulled out all the stops for this one, and the result is pure design inspiration.

Here are a few of its unique features:

15,000 sq. ft. space decorated by Thomas O'Brien
West Elm's first-ever living plant wall
Art installation by Justin R. Lytle from Seattle's Cornish College of the Arts
Christmas decor six weeks before the rest of the country

We applaud West Elm for recognizing Seattle as such a special place!

Nervous System's Computer-Simulated Wonders

2011-10-10T07:00:00.000-07:00

No one wants cookie-cutter décor or jewelry. But only Mother Nature makes true one-of-a-kind designs. Until Massachusetts firm Nervous System cracked nature's code. The firm's nature-inspired lamps, jewelry, and trivets designed for Modern Twist, can be found at many shops throughout the Northwest.

Jessica Rosenkrantz and Jesse Louis-Rosenberg, both Massachusetts Institute of Technology grads, are attracted to "complex and unconventional geometries," such as a leaf's veining and coral aggregation. The pair uses algorithms to simulate nature's processes, creating truly one-of-a-kind lamps and jewelry designs.

Hyphae Lamp, $600

Algae pendant, $45

Radiolaria bracelet, $55

Perfect gifts for the person who has it all? We think so.

Lamps and jewelry available online at Nervous Systems, and at the following stores:

Idom, 827 N.W., 23rd Ave., Portland, Oregon, 503.477.6818

Modern, 207 E. 5th Avenue Suite 105 Eugene, Oregon, 97401; 541.686.1935

Posh Home, 2502 Sixth Ave., Tacoma, Washington, 253.593.5001

Tilde, 7919 S.E. 13th Ave., Portland, Oregon, 503.234.9600

T-Spot, 144 Laneda Ave., Manzanita, Oregon, 503.368.SPOT

Vancouver Art Gallery Store, 750 Hornby Street, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada

Jennifer Ament Art Show Wednesday Oct. 5th

2011-10-03T19:25:00.000-07:00

The GRAY ladies will be attending the über talented Jennifer Ament's art show this Wednesday at Velocity Art & Design! They have dedicated an entire wall to showcasing Ament's striking linoleum-cut prints in vintage frames. Guests are encouraged to wear a "disguise" in the form of a face mask, so let creativity be your guide. The event starts at 6pm--see you there!

Wall of Ament's prints at Capers in West Seattle

Focus on Design October 6th & 7th

2011-10-03T09:23:00.000-07:00

Calling all design professionals! There is still time to pre-register for this year's Focus on Design, a to-the-trade event hosted by the local chapters of NWSID and NKBA and held at the Seattle Design Center October 6th and 7th. We are excited to announce that GRAY is the media sponsor!

Over two days, explore informative seminars, discover the region's "hidden gems," check out the product showcase, and celebrate at two cocktail parties!

Visit the Focus on Design main page for more information and the full schedule of events. See you there!

Heather Christo's Tips for Entertaining with Style

2011-09-30T12:49:00.000-07:00

By now, we hope you've seen Heather Christo's amazing fall tablescape in the preview issue of GRAY. (If not, ch-ch-check it out at GrayMag.net!)

Copyright Heather Christo, via HeatherChristo.com

Heather is a classically trained chef who entertains with elegance, style, and enviable taste. For GRAY's preview issue, she imagined a rich tablescape full of deep purples and bright turquoises with a bounty of fall fruit, hints of gold, and fine glassware.

Where, you may ask, does Heather shop? Well, she's been kind enough to share her favorite must-stop stores and why she loves them so you can create your own gorgeous table and make all your friends jealous.

Watson Kennedy
Francophile heaven! They have amazing dishtowels (that I use as napkins), sets of colorful glasses, and lovely ribbon and odds and ends.

Pacific Galleries
This is a treasure trove for vintage glassware and dishes, as well as unique one-of-a-kind objects.

Nancy’s Sewing Basket
This is where I get the majority of my fabric that I turn into tablecloths, runners, and napkins.

Great Jones Home
Bowls, pitchers, glasses, cake plates—they always have the chicest selection of modern and pretty items. They also have incredible tabletop items that range from turquoise stoneware platters to rock-crystal bowls.

Rhinestone Rosie
They have the most wonderful selection of sparkly costume jewelry I have ever seen. I love to use vintage pieces as embellishment on my tables or pinned to ribbons on napkins.

Stuhlbergs
This family-run store is a delight. They have a wonderful selection of serving ware—everything from platters to cake plates and vases to linens. They also always have wonderful seasonal items.

Goodwill (antiques section)
If you are in the mood for a treasure hunt, then head to the antiques section at Goodwill. I have found everything from pressed glass and milk-glass cake plates, to old Limoges teacups.

Anthropologie
They have a wonderful and always-revolving selection of charming plates, glasses, and flatware. Not to mention the great linens, candleholders, pitchers, and teapots!

Crate and Barrel
Affordable and basic, but always in style. They have great staples, and I use their white dishes and platters constantly. They are also my go-to source for wine and water glasses that don’t cost a fortune.

Sur La Table
For wonderful stoneware pieces and the best napkins, this store is cozy and always has something new.

New at Nube Green

2011-09-28T13:20:00.000-07:00

Head over to Nube Green on Capital Hill and check out their new private label of refurbished and reupholstered furniture, plus water-based and zero VOC Stark Paint!

Visualize Buoyancy at Suyama Space

2011-09-23T08:29:00.000-07:00

Atherton|Keener, in one exhibit, tries to artistically define the concept of "buoyancy." The Phoenix-based art-and-architecture firm is filling up Seattle's Suyama Space with a suspended reflective surface that responds to air movement until Dec. 16.

Besides air, the reflective surface can also be moved by weights and counterweights. The art installation that you see will depend on the time of day, cloud cover, temperature fluctuations, and number of fellow visitors--so it's worth coming back again and again for varied existential moments.

Jay Atherton and Cy Keener both have degrees in architecture, and seek to understand the way that humans perceive the intangibles: " Light, sound, space, heat, cold, aridity and dampness," as they write on their website. They design architecture as well as art installations.

This latest exhibit is only one of many years of exhibits brought to us by architecture firm Suyama Peterson Deguchi.

Suyama Space, 2324 Second Avenue, Seattle, Washington

Open Season

2011-09-16T12:56:00.000-07:00

So long summer, EVENT SEASON officially opens. Grab your totes and comfy shoes and soak up the splendor of design! Here are just a few happenings within the next couple weeks that you won't want to miss.

Today through Sept. 25

Seattle Design Festival 2011

This first-ever fest brings forth a whole sleu of Seattle's über talented architects and designers. For a week+, you can catch more than 30 events (ticket-based and free) all over town including speakers, tours, activities, and more. Major kudos to everyone involved in putting it together—the whole effort makes me proud to be a Pacific Northwesterner and Seattleite (which makes up for today's "Stay Away from Seattle Day")!

Saturday, Sept. 17

Seattle Design District's

Sidewalk Sale

You'll certainly want to make time for this ... 60+ vendors filling the parking lots in front of Terris Draheim and Seattle Design Center with designer furnishings, accessories, and more. And, the kicker is that all this fun is for a good cause! Proceeds go to support Seattle Children's Playgarden. 10am-3pm, corner of 6th Ave. S. & Orcas in Georgetown. Be there!

Sept. 29–Oct. 2

Interior Design Show West

Design | Art | Architecture

See the latest and greatest contemporary, cutting edge and original residential design during IDSwest. Held at the new Vancouver Convention Centre in B.C., this forum is the place to shop, learn, and especially ... to be inspired. The excitement begins with keynote speaker Ross Lovegrove on Thurs. night and continues with exhibits, design competitions and installations—such as Tom Dixon Pub by Inform Interiors, and many brilliantly innovative ideas by young designers.

Sarah Loertscher Jewelry & Event

2011-08-27T08:26:00.000-07:00

Kite pin, $120

I popped into Click! Design That Fits yesterday to see their new featured jewelry artist, Sarah Loertscher, as well as some of their new goods from the New York International Gift Fair (stay tuned for a report on their Fair finds later!) Let me tell you, you want to check out Sarah's architectural jewelry and artwork now, and say you knew her when ... because her star is rising.

Facet earrings, $48

Growing up in Indiana, Sarah Loertscher had an obsession with sparkling, faceted things and remembers trying to find fool's gold in her parents driveway. She then studied metalsmithing in college. After an apprenticeship and a fellowship, Sarah moved to Seattle, where she now has a studio in the Sodo District. Her Indiana roots remain deep, though, and come out in her work as she reflects upon the vast Midwest landscape with its power lines, granaries, and silos framed against the sky. "These immense objects impressed upon me the feeling that structure itself is beauty," she says, "and the bare bones of a form are the often the beautiful parts."

Sarah will be at Click! next Thursday, Sept. 1 from 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. for a reception for her prints, drawings, and installation pieces. And don't miss her at Click! on Saturday, Sept. 3 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. for a trunk show of her new jewelry.

Line earrings, $48

Double steel earrings, $112

Single steel bracelet, $40 (wear a stack!)

F-series, will be sold during the reception and trunk show

Structure print, screenprint

Playing in the Northwest

2011-08-23T11:17:00.000-07:00

The Northwest is so visually stimulating ... we have beautiful architecture, gorgeous neighborhoods and amazing views everywhere we turn. When was the last time you stopped to really look at one of our historical buildings, I mean REALLY look? As part of an exercise in documenting his surroundings, Northwest artist Aaron Voronoff Trotter brilliantly turned is detailed illustrations of local landmarks into playing cards. Each deck of cards comes in a hand-decorated box, signed and numbered by the artist and includes an illustrated guide with addresses for each landmark. He currently offers decks of Portland Famous Places, Portland Neighborhood Places and Seattle Landmarks, with Astoria, Oregon and Vancouver, B.C. coming soon. You can get your hands on them from his website or at etsy.

Images: arrontrotter.com and etsy.com

Lead Pencil Studio's Non-Sign

2011-08-11T06:00:00.000-07:00

Image: Courtesy DesignBoom

Some of you may be trucking it across the U.S.–Canada border this summer on a road trip, and while you do, take note of a new sculpture commissioned by the U.S. General Services Administration. Non-Sign II, installed this January, is a "non-billboard."

Image: Courtesy DesignBoom

A framed shot of the sky resides where the billboard should be, and is surrounded by a net of stainless steel rods. The provocative artwork is done by the hands of Daniel Mihalyo and Annie Han of Seattle's Lead Pencil Studio.

This talented duo has done a number of works in the Northwest and has received many national and international awards, including the American Academy of Rome's Rome Prize, the Emerging Voice Award from the Architectural League of New York, and the City Artists Award from Seattle.

Image: Courtesy DesignBoom

Summer-Ready Tools from Chef'n

2011-08-05T08:10:00.000-07:00

What's the best part of summer? Eating entertaining friends and eating yummy food, of course. I've long loved Seattle-based company Chef'n for marrying smart design with cheerful colors. Here are some of their new offerings that will help make summer dinner parties easier, and more fun.

FreshForce Avocado Masher, $9.99

Ice Cream Scoop, $7.95

Corn Holders (shaped like corn kernels!), $5.99

Barbecue Branch Skewer, $11.99

Mop Brush, for mopping barbecue sauce onto food, $14.99

Now Open: Blackbird Portland

2011-08-01T08:09:00.000-07:00

image, Blackbird

Seattle based lifestyle and men's boutique, Blackbird, has opened its doors at 1306 West Burnside St. in Portland, OR.--to great fanfare at the grand opening block party that went down on Saturday. The building, newly dubbed the "blackbox building," stands dramatically on the corner in a coat of fresh black paint, and also houses Dunderdon workshop, Tanner Leather Goods and Isaac Hers. Blackbird is having their summer clearance sale, so go snag some great deals and welcome them to the neighborhood.

Things Organized Neatly

2011-07-27T06:00:00.000-07:00

My name is Angela, and I have an obsession. It is an OCD-friendly Tumblr blog called Things Organized Neatly, and it is just plain awesome.

If you've never visited this site before, you should. Peculiar objects, household items, car parts, food leftovers—basically anything and everything is painstakingly arranged, adjusted, and photographed for our freakishly organized viewing pleasure.

Turns out the suits at various design companies are taking note too! They are taking to the Things Organized Neatly style to design ads and photograph products, and the results are just as neat as you can imagine. Take a look!

KK Outlet for Vitra

Repetto Paris, photo by Matthieu de Martignac via Zoot

Graypants and Plumen

2011-07-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Graypants in Seattle turns scrap cardboard into lights warm with texture and design. And now Graypants is pairing its aptly named Scrap Light shades with Plumen light bulbs, those artistic, twisty takes on compact fluorescent light bulbs. Perfect match of industrial with comfortable materials, we say. Take a gander!

Scrap Lights in Drum, Stellar, Jupiter, anywhere from $129 to $1,899. Graypants sells the Plumen bulbs with the lights, for $29.95.

Call for Entries

2011-07-21T10:15:00.000-07:00

The international Spark Awards are exciting competitions created to promote great design and designers. Everyone is invited to participate--designers, art directors, architects, engineers, teachers, design firms, manufacturers, institutions, ad agencies and entrepreneurs may enter, interact and enjoy Sparking. We just passed the deadline for Concept entries, but it's not to late to enter the Pro Spark Awards by Sept. 26. Click here for more details.

Spark: Pro focuses on work that has been built (produced, realized or in pre-production). Take a look at a few excerpts from this year's entries so far:

Out of the Box

Design Type: Office Workstation

Designer: Kalhan Mattoo

Godrej Interio is happy to launch World's First Movable Workstation - Out-of-the-Box A collaborative design with Arch Kalhan Mattoo of Plant3Studios. The workstation design inspired from a Swiss knife, literally comes Out-of-the-Box to reveal two perfectly functioning workstations; with no special skills and couple of minutes to install. With the essence of the concept being 'plug and play', each module comes pre-wired. This workstation can be open, shut and moved with the same ease, facilitating multi-use of the space and various workspace arrangement possibilities. Out-of-the-box is at work even when not in use, saving precious office space. It looks so different in open and shut situations, it is an inducement to design the exterior as a tempting package that speaks of the offerings inside, making it an important canvas for architects to design office spaces. Other features of the product include sufficient storage space, convenient switchboard accessibility, desktop lighting unit and more, all making it a workspace idea that makes one think and perform truly out-of-the-box.

PRV Electric charge point

Design Type: Electric vehicle movility

Designer: Jon Santacoloma

PRV-S charging point has been specifically designed to suit outdoor and street parking applications. Its stylish design is well suited for the integration in modern urban spaces. Never forgetting design for all (usability) and eco-design characteristics suited on the product. Every safety aspect is covered to eliminate any possible electrical hazard. All PRV series is manufactured in non-electrically conductive materials respectful with the environment. The PRV-S standalone recharge point has a robust construction and can be deployed with a minimal public work effort. Both AC (single phase and 3-phase) and DC charging options are supported. The PRV-S includes both GPRS and low voltage PLC communication interfaces, and can be managed both from a special controller at the distribution substation, or over the internet (GPRS), for remote user authentication and billing. The range of this product includes PRV-M and PRV-P (as a solution for parking Lots) and PRV-H (as a solution for Residential Applications).

d.light S1

Design Type: Solar LED Lamp

Designer: Robin Chilton

d.light S1 is an ultra-affordable solar lamp designed to target students in rural Africa and India. It is intended to displace dim and dangerous kerosene wick lamps, and does so through the use of renewable solar energy. d.light S1 has been designed as a no-risk study lamp for young people because it is ultra-affordable, extremely durable, and easy to use. At a recommended retail price of about USD8, d.light S1 is the most affordable quality solar lantern in the world. It is designed to withstand the tough conditions under which it will be constantly in use: hot, dusty, and humid environments filled with insects and wild animals. The d.light S1 was launched globally in May 2011. To learn more, visit www.dlightdesign.com.

Ballard Bee

2011-07-19T09:37:00.000-07:00

Blame it on Greek yogurt, but honey is hot--especially raw honey. You better believe I'm banishing the bear in favor of the beautifully designed package of local honey made by Seattle's Ballard Bee Company. The pollen comes from local plants, so it's literally a taste of Ballard. Visit their website to find the full list of retailers in Seattle and Portland.

Sagaform found at Click!

2011-07-18T06:48:00.000-07:00

Recently spotted at Click! Design That Fits ... Sagaform! As far as we know, Click! is the only shop in Seattle that sells this Scandinavian line. John and Frances Smersh were nice enough to send us some pictures from the store and of the products.

Wine carafes, $34, and oil and vinegar set, $32.

Rocking whiskey glasses.

Tea infusers, $27

Cookie or storage canisters, small, $21, and large, $32.

Aloha pitcher and glasses set, $52.

Three-in-one grater, pasta measurer, and pasta server.

Bursts of Yellow

2011-07-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

Do you ever associate a month with a color? Well for me, July is all yellow and cheerful and warm. Maybe this is because by July a strange golden glow starts to peek out from behind the cloud cover over the Northwest. Whatever the reason, I can't get enough of it! Enjoy your summer and these bursts of sunshine ...

Carnaby Flame Lamp by Johnathan Adler, available at The Standard

Vintage Louis Chair, available at The Cross Decor & Design

Flower Series VII, by Kathleen McCarty, available at Dixie Stark Home

Edward sofa, available at Inform Interiors

Tufenkian Core 004, available at Driscoll Robbins

Toolbag, by Bag'n'Noun, available at Alder & Co.

Kits by Jen Pearson Designs

2011-07-11T12:46:00.001-07:00

Apothecary Matchstick Bottles

Firestarter Kit

Letter Writing Kit

Sometimes you come across something and you think, "that is just cool." That's what I think about these Kits by Jen Pearson Designs, located in Oakland, CA. Most of the materials are reclaimed, adding an extra layer of "I want that." How about those matches as a hostess gift? Available locally at Velocity Art & Design (buy now online at Velocity) and Blackbird in Seattle, WA.; Tilde, Ink & Peat and Alder & Co. in Portland, OR. Photos: Jen Pearson Design

Beauty and Bounty at SAM

2011-07-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

Courtesy: Seattle Art Museum.

For art that captures the particular beauty of this area of the country, take a look at "Beauty and Bounty: American Art in the Age of Exploration" at the Seattle Art Museum (through Sept. 11.) The exhibit features over 100 works of 19th- and early 20th-century paintings.

Puget Sound on the Pacific Coast (1870) Albert Bierstadt. Courtesy: Seattle Art Museum.

Painters include Sanford Gifford, Thomas Moran, and Albert Bierstadt, who painted Puget Sound on the Pacific Coast, owned by SAM. There are also about 60 landscape photographs of early western photographers, including Carleton Watkins, Edward Muybridge, and Timothy O’Sullivan.

Courtesy: Seattle Art Museum.

Beach Time

2011-07-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Now that summer has finally arrived in the Northwest, it's time to head to the water! Here are some stylish beach towels that are as lovely at the beach as they are at home drying over the deck railing.

Fuchsia Beach Towel, Emilio Pucci

Marimekko Unikko Pink and Red Beach Towel, Crate and Barrel

Rainbow Spiral Tie Dye Towel, Made by Hippies

White Bloom, Garnet Hill

Dune Reverie Beach Towel, Anthropologie

Seattle's Chocolates Summer Flavors

2011-07-05T06:00:00.000-07:00

I saw the flavors that Seattle's Chocolates made this summer, and I thought it was a trio of perfect sunny pairings! Birthday Cake, Lemon Ice, and Campfire S'more will be just right for hostess gifts when visiting friends and party-crashing this July and August. I might even store some up for the winter months, when I crave the sun.

If these are too sweet for you, try the San Juan Sea Salt and Tortilla Lime for the sweet-meets-salty options. $3 for each truffle bar.

Happy Fourth of July!

2011-07-04T10:55:00.000-07:00

U.S. Centennial Flag c. 1876, Red Ticking on 1st Dibs
Photo: John Granen

Happy 4th from all of us at Gray!

Birdfeeders by These Creatures

2011-06-29T21:51:00.001-07:00

Outside my window everyday I see cute little birds flitting around the patio and on the grass. Currently, these feathered friends are left to fend for themselves in my yard because I don't own a birdfeeder. Enter local designers at "These Creatures." These striking designs may be just the thing I need to catapult myself to avian eminence in the neighborhood--or at least orinthological illustriousness.

Photos courtesy: These Creatures

Obakki

2011-06-29T06:00:00.000-07:00

I really only need three words to describe the spring/summer 2011 collection from Vancouver-based fashion brand Obakki. Simple. Elegant. Effortless.

Bloc Sweater and Adur Pant

Marquette Dress

Halsey Dress

Brewer Sweater and Shayne Short

Lily Dress

Olive Blouse

Obakki designs are available at Moule, Nushin, Merge, Nordstrom, Obakki's flagship in Vancouver, and online.

Sea-Glass Colored Tumblers

2011-06-28T06:00:00.000-07:00

While I'm typically faithful to good Northwest neutrals—gray, brown, white, taupe—during the summer, it's fun to break out some more-colorful glassware for entertaining. Here is some glassware from local shops or artisans to break out of the clear monotony. But I don't stray too far from Northwest-inspired colors: These four examples all remind me of sea glass.

Parisian Glass, $40 for a set of four in clear, green, pink, or purple from Seattle's Rosanna; Decicio Glass tall drinking glass, $45 at Seattle's Far4.

Aino Aalto Small Tumbler, $10 each from Portland's Hive Modern; Wine Punt drinking glasses, $10 for 10 oz. and $12 for 12 oz. at Portland's Pigeon Toe.

New from Grain Design

2011-06-27T10:59:00.000-07:00

Bound mirror

Hung mirror

Spool

What seems like a flurry of new designs coming out of Seattle lately gets a boost from the creative people at Grain Design, based on Bainbridge Island, WA. They debuted three new products--Bound, Hung and Spool at this year's ICFF, and each is now available for purchase through their website.

The Bound mirror is backed by bamboo and felt, and the customizable rim is wrapped in hemp twine. Hung was inspired by designer James' background as a boat builder, and is a waterjet cut mirror threaded with Manila rope. Finally, Spool is a modular base for furniture made from up-cycled paper spools from L.A.'s garment district, the kits are sold in groups of 240 spools and 520 connectors.

This is design you can feel extra-good about--Grain donates 1% to environmental causes as a part of the 1% For The Planet program. Their designs always show how recycled or environmentally friendly materials can be made into useful and well-designed products. Go Grain!

Friday Roundup

2011-06-24T10:09:00.000-07:00

We had some fun blog posts this week, take a look. Have a good weekend!

Perfect Imperfections

Conference on Northwest Craft This Week

Collaboration: CraftedSystems & YWCA

The Cheaper Show No. 10

The Cheaper Show No.10

2011-06-23T07:52:00.000-07:00

Happening this Saturday, June 25, "The Cheaper Show" is a huge, annual one-night art show with pieces offered at affordable prices. The exhibition takes place on Kingsway in Vancouver, B.C., from 6 p.m. to midnight and will consist of 200 Canadian and international artists.

The show's curators seek to "remove barriers between talented emerging artists, established artists, buyers, curators, gallery directors and collectors, creating new channels for engaged interaction."

What a great idea for artists to show their work, while at the same time making it accessible and removing the intimidation factor that some might feel has become synonymous with art collecting. Here are some of the artists I'm excited about--note Seattle artist Vincent Pacheco!

Untitled, Justin Tyler Close; photo: Justin Tyler Close

Landscape Painting 1, Russell Leng; photo: Rusell Leng

Cigs, Vincent Pacheco; photo: Vincent Pacheco

Everything that has Ever Happened up to and Including Today, Andy Dixon; photo: Andy Dixon

Melted Neapolitan, Dierdre Hofer; photo: Dierdre Hofer

Collaboration: CraftedSystems & YWCA

2011-06-22T06:00:00.001-07:00

Here's a collaboration that I was excited to discover: industrial design paired with community outreach. Craving the quality, story and meaning in handcrafted objects, industrial designer Aurelie Tu foundedCraftedSystems. Partnering with the YWCA women's shelter in Portland, these products are made by hand in a collaborative environment where women share and learn and develop skills that help in economically enabling and empowering them. All CraftedSystems eco-friendly products are produced in Portland using local materials. Click here to shop.

Photos: CraftedSystems

Conference on Northwest Craft This Week

2011-06-21T06:00:00.000-07:00

Craft—the handmade, local, and organic—in interior design and architecture may be having a resurgence nationwide, but the Pacific Northwest would like to make its claim as having always found craft valuable.

This week, on Thursday, June 23, AIA Seattle hosts an all-day conference called WhichCRAFT on what craft is, and what its future is. The day consists of panel presentations and lectures with Kimo Griggs of the University of Washington, Gordon Walker of Mithun, Jim Graham of Graham Baba Architects, Dan Belcher of LMN tech studio, Richard Manderbach of
Krekow/Jennings, and Jim Newson, founder of Urban Hardwoods. The keynote speaker is Scott Hudson, founder of local Henrybuilt.

In the evening, check out a screening of Modern Views: A Conversation on Northwest Modern Architecture, a film by Studio/216 about midcentury Northwestern architecture that explores how craft helped shape our regional style.

Architects, interior designers, craftspeople and anyone interested in craft are welcome to attend. Registration starts at 7:30 a.m. at the 415 Westlake building.

Perfect Imperfections

2011-06-20T06:00:00.000-07:00

Cover of Perfect Imperfections

Here's a cool idea: Kirk Albert of Kirk Albert Vintage Furnishings in Seattle has used the hottest platform for online magazines (Issuu) to publish a book that showcases the shop's one-of-a-kind inventory. In fact, lots of exciting things are happening for one of the city's most unique shops. It provided many of the store furnishings for the new Starbucks in Madison Park (another location that serves beer and wine—yes!), and they have a new exclusive design, the Military Bench. Read the book here!

Check out some of the great stuff on their 1st Dibs store:

Jewelry Encrusted Mannequin Head

Circa 1911 IBM Time Clock

Vintage Chrome Cubic Gaetano Sciolari Chandelier

Modernist Painting

Kirk Albert Vintage Furnishings, 5517 Airport Way S., Seattle and 1st Dibs

Photos courtesy: 1st Dibs

Make it to Market

2011-06-16T06:00:00.000-07:00

2012 Almanac Poster

Emergency Button

Tool Holster

Want to be a part of a great cause for Seattle design? Free Time Industries needs our help to fund three amazing new products for the New York International Gift Fair (NYIGF). There are only a few days left to contribute, and depending on how much you donate, you are pre-ordering one or more of these wonderful designs! Donate here.

Find them at: Far{4}, 1020 First Ave., Seattle; Veridis, 1205 E. Pike St., Seattle

Photos courtesy: Free Time Industries

The Social

2011-06-15T06:00:00.000-07:00

I love a good surprise, but I always end up peeking and ruining things for myself because I just can't help it. If you're like me, I feel your Catch-22 pain... and I also enable it!

You may have heard about The Social, a hip new club opening up on Seattle's East Olive Way. Designed by Pb Elemental, the club has managed to remain coy so far, just teasing followers on its website with a simple "Coming Soon." But Pb Elemental has been kind enough to share a few renderings of their design for The Social. Take a look!

Courtesy Pb Elemental

I love the very Northwest look on the outside as well as the old Hollywood glam feel on the inside. I can't wait to see it in person!

The Social is slated to open in early August. For more information, visit their Facebook page.

Rorschach Test, Anyone?

2011-06-14T06:00:00.000-07:00

While working on an upcoming post about mustard yellow, I stumbled upon Pigeon Toe's brilliant collection for spring/summer 2011 and fell in love with their ink blot pattern. They retail from their southeast Portland location, or at several locations around the country. Click here for the full list.

Dining en Plein Air

2011-06-13T08:03:00.000-07:00

Seattleites know that summer is the best part of the year, the time when you forget about the months of drizzle recently escaped. Enjoy the outdoors with a day trip to a winery or a local park with a view of the Olympics. And make sure to pack some treats to go.

Clockwise, from top left: Laguiole Natura three-piece cheese knife set, $29.95 at Crate and Barrel; Go-Vino 4-Pack unbreakable wine glasses, $12.95 at Mrs. Cooks; Washington Plyboo Cutting Board, $40 at Etsy; Blue and White Checkered Tablecloth, $24.95 to $49.95 at Sur la Table; Vintage Picnic Basket, $28 at Etsy.

For a good guide to local wineries, check out the Washington State Wine Commission's website, which allows you to map out a winery trail and even find a local bed and breakfast if you want to make a gourmet weekend of it. Just don't forget the Beecher's.

Friday Roundup

2011-06-10T08:18:00.000-07:00

This week had us looking at pastels and furniture as art, at new products and a storied architecture firm's first monograph. We hope you enjoyed reading this week. Have a wonderful weekend!

Summertime Pastels

New Roy McMakin Exhibit

New from Ladies & Gentlemen Studio

Bing Thom Works

2011-06-09T08:14:00.000-07:00

Vancouver-based Bing Thom Architects has long been noted for their visionary approach to architecture and urban planning. Founded in 1982, this firm has been given multiple awards over the years, including the 2010 Firm Award from the Royal Architectural Institute of Canada.

Photo from Chronicle Books

That's why I'm so looking forward to their first monograph Bing Thom Works (Princeton Architectural Press, $65), coming soon from Chronicle Books. The book will highlight some of the firm's most recent work, including the expansion of the Arena Stage in Washington, D.C., Chan Centre for the Performing Arts at the University of British Columbia, and the private Acadia residence.

Acadia residence, Bing Thom Architects

Arena Center, Bing Thom Architects

New from Ladies & Gentlemen Studio

2011-06-08T06:00:00.000-07:00

From the Seattle design team that brought us those clever color-coated servers, is "Cane & Able," a witty stool and hanger made from whitened pine and a vintage cane. The design was unveiled at this year's ICFF in New York, and is another successful addition to the Ladies & Gentlemen Studio product line. Another tip o' the cap to great design in Seattle!

Photos courtesy: Ladies & Gentlemen Studio

New Roy McMakin Exhibit

2011-06-07T06:00:00.000-07:00

Seattle artist and architect Roy McMakin intrigues us again with another exhibition of furniture-art with quirky qualities in Behind What It's in Front Of, his sixth exhibition at Quint Contemporary Art in La Jolla, California. After being interested in paintings by abstract artist John McLaughlin (1878–1976) for decades, McMakin put together this exhibit that pairs new work with McLaughlin's paintings from the 1960s and 1970s.

McLaughlin was born in Massachusetts, but lived in southern California for much of his life. He started painting when he was 50, and his works now belong to such institutions as the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Corcoran Gallery of Art in Washington, D.C., among others.

McMakin makes high-quality chairs, tables, and more that often have an element of the unexpected, a piece missing, or two odd pieces juxtaposed. In this exhibit, he translates McLaughlin's minimalist ideas into furniture sculptures, as in the blue dresser above that so closely follows McLaughlin's horizontal rectilinear blocks in the black-and-white painting to the left of it.

The exhibit runs through July 16, but if you can't make it down to SoCal, check out more photos of McMakin's work at Quint Contemporary Gallery, and on his website for his Seattle company, Domestic Furniture, and his firm, Domestic Architecture.

Untitled, 2001.

Untitled, 2011.

Photos courtesy: Quint Contemporary Art

Summertime Pastels

2011-06-06T06:00:00.000-07:00

Summer styling is often about pairing big, bold colors with lots of character. Think Mexican fiestas and preppy brights à la Kate Spade. But I prefer softer hues that are a bit more romantic and feminine. Think strawberry milkshake instead of sherbet for a refreshing summertime pastel.

My pastel inspiration, photo and styling from Rebecca Newport

The look is still airy, and you can avoid the grandma trap by pairing it with whites, khakis, smoke grays, and some modern embellishments.

Moooi's Lolita Table Lamp by Nika Zupanc, from Hive

Moule's Left on Houston sleeveless dress

Fleet Object's Pools 3 short by Zoe Garred

RED Valentino's Floral Print Dress, from Nordstrom

Rosanna's Soiree Glass

Thomas Paul's Miami tea towel, from Velocity Art & Design

Trove's Vertere wallpaper

This is about elevating the profession. This is about inspired innovation. This is PRODUCT RUNWAY!

2011-06-03T16:00:00.000-07:00

Looking forward to Product Runway tonight at Showbox Sodo. Maybe that's an understatement. I've been excited about this event since my first introduction to it in 2009! This is all about friendly, creative competition and the resulting designs that emerge are at least, innovative and inspired. It is thrilling to witness.

Put on by IDCW, Product Runway merges high-fashion couture with high-fashion interior and architecture design. Their website describes the event the best: Interior designers and architects flaunt their creativity and technical skills by producing couture fashion constructed out of interior finish materials. Lift a glass and marvel at garments of carpet or ceramic tile that look like anything but! Part runway fashion show, part theatrical production and part indulgence for guests, PRODUCT RUNWAY promises to be the event of the year and a show case for the Puget Sound design community.

Friday Roundup

2011-06-03T08:26:00.000-07:00

Check out the blog posts from this week, and we hope you have a wonderful weekend!

Designer Memorial Day
Frame This
Light Fixture Predictions, Anyone?
Bloom

Bloom

2011-06-02T06:00:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year when the sun comes out and in an instant we forget how many record-breaking consecutive days of cloudy, rainy weather we've endured. All is forgiven and everything is coming up roses. With that in mind, here are a few inspiring blooms that I find irresistible.

Clockwise: Thibaut Artisan Collection, Rio; Osborne & Little, Nina Campbell, Paradiso; Mama's Rose limited edition print by Seattle Artist Jennifer Ament; Ruby Floral Ring, Fruhling Collection by Seattle Artist Birna Sigurbjornsdottir, photographed by Hank Drew; Kartell Bloom Suspension Lamp, available at hive in Portland.

Light Fixture Predictions, Anyone?

2011-06-01T06:00:00.000-07:00

Remember a few years back when the Moooi Random Light was all the rage? Then it was Bocci's 14 lights everywhere.

Moooi's masterpiece

Bocci's beautiful customizable pendant chandelier

These lights are fantastic and still rocking it in many a space, but now I'm wondering what the next big fixture will be in years to come. Time for a little game called "I predict..."

Tom Dixon's Etch Light in brass from 2010

Foscarini's 2011 Planet pendant

Bocci's 28 lights

Frame This

2011-05-31T06:00:00.000-07:00

Original vintage images for sale at this local etsy shop.

Designer Memorial Day

2011-05-30T06:00:00.000-07:00

In life, design connoisseurs are on a perpetual quest to surround themselves with visually stimulating designs. And in death, why would it be any different?

Here's some afterlife inspiration:

White Shrine by Seattle's Stefan Gulassa with Leslie Ross

Jacob Jensen’s Diamant Coffin Series, noted on yankodesign.com

The iconic Paul Rand's headstone designed by Fred Troller, noted on orbit.planetstudio

Flat Marker by Seattle's Lundgren Monument

The Warehouse Sale @ Velocity Art & Design

2011-05-28T13:19:00.001-07:00

Sale you say? At Velocity? I'm so there! I got to the shop shortly after it opened on Fri. to see the wonderful wares on sale--everything from desk accessories to large casegoods and decor was ripe for the taking. It got pretty crowded at times, but it was definitely worth it for any serious design lover. Everything is 40-80% off, so get there while it lasts! Here are some photos from the day:

Velocity Art & Design, 251 Yale Ave. N., (206) 749-9575, velocityartanddesign.com

Designing GRAY

2011-05-27T12:53:00.000-07:00

We're having fun creating our brand for GRAY. Here's peek at the business card designs we were choosing from. So many cool colors, it was hard to pick just one!

GRAY is a reflection of the vibrant design scene of the Pacific Northwest.

These were our options for the back of the cards:

Which combos do you like best?

Celebrate!

2011-05-27T07:32:00.000-07:00

We are very excited to introduce GRAY!

Yay!

Check out our blog posts from this week, and be sure to visit our website, GrayMag.net, for details about our upcoming launch this fall.

Introducing... GRAY!
Glunge Chic
Top Brass
Googie

And if you like what you see, the cool thing to do is to follow us on Twitter and like us on Facebook. (Pssst... we like gossips, so tell your friends.)

Thanks for stopping by!

Googie

2011-05-26T06:00:00.000-07:00

Seattle's Space Needle celebrates its 50th Anniversary this year, so what better way for an architecture geek like myself to celebrate than with snapshots of other stellar examples of Googie architecture in the Pacific Northwest?

Photo: www.pachd.com

Originally named "The Space Cage," the Space Needle was built for the 1962 World's Fair.

Photo: King County Tax Assessor

Within months of being declared a historic landmark in 2008, the Denny's in the Ballard area was demolished after the developer challenged the ruling.

Photo: Gary Halvorson, Oregon State Archives

Though it may not have been intentional, The Oregon City Municipal Elevator built in 1954 certainly looks Googie if you ask me!

Photo: http://www.1st-vancouver.com/Vancouver-Planetarium.html

H.R. MacMillan Space Centre in Vancouver, B.C., is 360-degree planetarium.

Top Brass

2011-05-25T06:00:00.000-07:00

The stylish geniuses at Iacoli & McAllister have done it again--this time their designs take a turn to the sartorial. Eight designs (conveniently, they are numbered 1-8) make up the new collection of simple, modern necklaces. For now, order online, here.

Glunge Chic

2011-05-24T06:00:00.000-07:00

Unconventional beauty. Glamorous grunge. Rick Owens' signature style. Whatever you call it, an elegant design with a bit of an edge is perfectly unexpected and just what I love to shake things up. Time to merge my heavy metal 90s flannel-wearing self (stereotype all in jest) with my more sophisticated leanings of today.

Imm Living's Duello Series Bookend

Charles Krafft's Hand Grenade with Flowers, from Far4

Poodlebreath's White Sinking Fairy Tale Pendant

Morbid Anatomy's Dreams, from Far4

Grandiose Lab's Teeth soap

Little Joseph candleholder by Maxim Velcovsky for Qubus, from Far4

Knuckle Duster Chain-Strap Clutch from Alexander McQueen, from Neiman Marcus

Introducing... GRAY!

2011-05-23T06:00:00.000-07:00

Hello, and welcome to GRAY!

GRAY first started when a few design-loving coworkers found themselves with a little extra time on their hands (bad economy, you know how it goes) and wanted to create something new to represent all things stylish and beautiful in the Pacific Northwest.

We are based out of Seattle and cover design in Washington, Oregon and British Columbia. We have dozens of years of editorial experience, and if you didn't already figure it out, we're more than a little infatuated with architecture, interiors, style, fashion, food and entertaining. If it has a great local angle and some stunning design involved, we definitely want to know about it.

Currently, we are working hard to put together the inaugural issue of GRAY, launching this fall. Until then, please enjoy our daily updates on the GRAY blog, where we'll share what we're working on and what's inspiring us in the Northwest.

If you have any leads, ideas or questions, we'd love to hear from you! Please feel free to shoot an email to info@graymag.net. (We're a small operation, so please give us a few days to respond.)

Lots of love,
Shawn, Stacy and Angela