Screen Play

As you may notice from the subject labels for this post, I'm torn as to how to categorize these unusual stainless steel panels—but that's a minor detail, really. What's much more interesting is how they could be used: to separate an open kitchen from an adjoining space; as a decorative scrim for a shower enclosure; maybe as a window treatment. A variety of patterns are available, and the manufacturer hints at a new model that will incorporate LED lighting. cainodesign.com

Organizing Principle

To deal effectively with odd-shaped interiors—like this loftlike garret, with its sloping ceiling and walls—it's a good strategy to smooth out the rough edges of the space, and then develop the functional elements. Here, storage is recessed into the wall and a simple working island defines the kitchen. While I hope the frayed-fabric panels are temporary measures, I do like how this room has been pulled together.

Happy Birthday, Wolfgang

On this date in 1756, one Johannes Chrysostomus Wolfgangus Theophilus Mozart was born in Salzburg, at Getreidegasse 9. This is the kitchen in the home; during the winter, that small, wood-fired stove must have been burning day and nacht. The house/museum is open for tours, of course. mozarteum.at

Fluid Form

Happy Australia Day! To celebrate, here's a shot of Aussie-turned-international designer Marc Newson's bathroom. Famously averse to sharp angles in his work, this space soothes with gentle contours and a muted palette. The grey stripes of the Linac marble sheathing the walls resemble all too closely the drizzly winter day here—let's hope it's sunnier Down Under. marc-newson.com

Visual Metaphor

Please excuse me while I rhapsodize a bit. Each piece of Plateau Block tile pairs a sculpted, raised rectangle with a rough and crumbly 'empty' patch. In and of itself, this contrast creates a compelling surface treatment, but when you think about how it represents the processes of construction and erosion, it assumes [Pun alert!] another dimension entirely. It's offered in four colors. Lixil

Stealth Shelf

Here's a gem of a storage solution, especially in a bath that's pinched for set-down space near the sink. The Cascada mirror features a concealed, drop-down shelf that's held closed by a tiny magnet. I think it's a secret worth sharing. americanstandard-us.com

Cool Kitchen

As our weekend snow begins to thaw, unexpected forms are melting into view, putting me in mind of this kitchen by Tehran-based Ryra Studio. Commissioned, appropriately enough, by a ski resort for its guest lodgings, it conjures the bumpy topography of a mogul run—albeit one snugly outfitted with hot water and cooking facilities.