Watt's Up?

'Housepower' was the catchy tag given to a 1959 industry campaign to promote all things electric in the home, from light bulbs to heating and cooling technologies. Naturally, the appliance-rich kitchen was very much the focus of this effort, and manufacturers vied for the public's attention in predictably wacky ways. Above, we have Westinghouse's effort. That big box on top of the island is—ta da!—the Refrigerator of the Future. It had doors both front and back, so you could access your snacks and ingredients with total convenience. It's a concept that I think is worth pursuing today, albeit in less conspicuous installations. To wit: How about a through-the-wall fridge that opens onto adjoining rooms?

Out on a Limb

You just never know when that college botany class will come in handy. This showerhead goes by the name of Rami, which is the plural form of ramus, Latin for 'branch'. That explains a lot about the design, with its chromed shoots weaving away from the wall. gattonirubinetteria.com

In the Hot House

Even though yesterday yielded thirteen fat tomatoes from our garden, the time when the vegetable patch will be plucked clean is inevitably coming. Solace comes in the upright form of these cupboards, which promise to extend the planting season year round. Integral LED grow-lights encourage seedlings, which are rooted in a deep, removable 'drawer' that can be carried from potting shed to cabinet. And should your green thumb suddenly take a turn for the black, your kitchen still benefits from plenty of storage, enclosed as well as open in design. toyokitchen.co.jp

Room to Think

It's certainly understandable that you'd want to try before you buy one of these investment-quality, do-it-all toilet seats. While some showrooms may have working demonstration models, it can be a bit disconcerting testing them, with everybody knowing what you're up to behind closed door.

In his mandated pursuit of continuing professional education, an architect friend came across this interesting resource: a list of restaurants whose facilities feature the Washlet. Anonymously experiencing its hygienic functions under such semi-public circumstances could, paradoxically, afford a modicum of privacy. totousa.com

Put a Shine On It

I'm so impressed by the level of craftsmanship exhibited by this cabinetry. A glossy lacquer finish on a ribbed panel—wow! Applying that contemporary coating to a traditionally-styled design is a spunky move, too, that lifts the Convivio kitchen out of the mainstream and into more adventuresome territory. martinimobili.it

Heat Ways

The options proffered by this appliance are so outrageous that they actually confuse me. Perhaps in 1961, the idea of pulling a chair up to the dryer and settling under the heat helmet was the epitome of sophistication? Considering the alternatives—a limpid fur and/or a wet head—I guess one couldn't say no to Norge's over-achieving invention.

Commercial Influence

A diminutive complement to the tub of the same name, the Vieques sink is offered as a countertop basin as well as a pedestal model. The latter far too much resembles an oil drum for my taste, a fact which may be a bit discordant, considering I'm a big fan of the aforementioned tub—but industrial chic has its limits. agapedesign.it