designer VANPEY

Maybe it's because I spent time in Japan that I appreciate the use of unused or under used space for storage. Futons that roll up, and bedding that gets stowed under tatami floors.

In many older buildings, including my 1940's home, the hallway is central to the home and a prime example of underused space. German designer, Vanpey, has turned this space into a storage haven with a range of narrow hanging storage and shelves.

His trough-like Kommod, is perfect for storing seasonal items, while the sliding shelves above are perfect for keys and other things that you find when you empty out your pockets. The rest of the line includes more clever solutions for modern living - a sofa tray for coffee and snacks, a laptop shelf just perfect for quickly checking email, sports results and, of course, this blog.

Check out more from Vanpey website, where you can also view slideshows about how the products work and how you can assemble the furniture while looking stylishly European!

www.vanpey.de

kids P'KOLINO

Fun and functional - these pieces from P'kolino are a stylish alternative to the typical cartoon emblazoned kids furniture. It's also refreshing to see modern furniture at an affordable price. Unbelievably the play table (left) is $129.

Check more from this designer at: p'kolino

hide and seek

modern, functional and playful. I just love the way designer, Peter Chen, adds an element of interactivity to his work. Whether it's the hide and seek appeal of this table, his multi configurable storage or plexiglass bottomed serving trays - there is always something a little bit surprising, but without being gimmicky.

Now I would say check out his other work online....but his website will launch in 2005! Now I must admit my whatmedia website has been a little "under construction" since 2005 but I didn't put a date on it so it's not quite as bad! Still his site does have his contact info, so here it is: www.casikamodern.com

think pink

No, I wasn't joking when I said that this week was a homage to pink.....

CLOCKWISE:
+ marine kinetic mobile, $75, pukapuka
+ pink fleece alien, $18, mint conspiracy
+ pink eclipse table, jan milne

bamboozled

Bamboo is purely beautiful, and like other pretty weeds, was underestimated for a long time. Now we look past it's propensity to grow into a forest in 42 minutes as a annoyance - it's renewability has turned it into the belle of the eco-ball.

Talk about natural beauty....ow gorgeous is that little red dress??

CLOCKWISE:
+ red dress, panda snack (PS: organic bamboo too!)
+ floating shelf, $880, modernlink available online through 2modern
+ spring chair, $690-$710, modern bamboo available online through design public
+ bamboo a-frame skateboard, $159, sector 9
+ bracelet, bamboo 54