If Only...

Just imagine if the current First Family exhibited the virtues ascribed to these appliances: tasteful style, helpful features, and honest value.

Keep the faith!

A Good Game, Indeed

The 'Backgammon' encaustic tiles on this backsplash knit the cabinets together with color; their pattern echos the herringbone marquetry of the floor. The color options are limited only by the proverbial imagination. pophamdesign.com

Foot Fetish

I think the Rockwell tub would be best at home in a kids' bath—but with its exaggerated forms and punchy palette, it would also be well suited to a PoMo- or Memphis-inspired interior. The feet are optional, but what would be the point of stripping away its distinguishing characteristic? Made of a stone/mineral compound, it's offered in nine standard colors, and custom hues, too. thewatermonopoly.com

Weathered—Or Not

No fancy fittings here—water for both the sink and shower flows from what are essentially stub-outs. This almost certainly creates a major splash event, but the wet-room design of this bath is built to handle just that. I'd like to revisit the space after a couple years' use, to see how the then-patinated copper alters the appearance of the room. stonewooddesign.co.uk

Super Kitchen

During last week's London Design Festival, KitchenAid revealed a series of concept kitchens. This one, by Ellen Bernhardt and Paola Vella, is my pick of the lot. The pole-based system could be installed in virtually any space, as it's not dependent on walls. The brass supports are fitted with tinted-glass shelves, lending a note of color to the kitchen. The name—La Super Leggera ['The Super Light']—could refer to weight, massing, or even be an artistic reference: doesn't the design bear a certain resemblance to a musical staff? kitchenaid.com

Chemical Warfare

As Agent Orange continues his charm offensive [or is it offensive charm?] with bro Rocket Man, let us look to history for lessons. This was part of the response in 1962 to the Bomb Threat du jour. I'm particularly impressed by the manufacturer's assurance, 'Comes complete with chemicals.' In the implied holocaustic scenario, wasn't there little doubt that if anything, the world would enjoy a surfeit of such substances? And note: 'Agent' inquiries were invited...orange or otherwise.

Cue the 'cue

Defying the calendar, we'll have a summer-like weekend, with temperatures close to 90ºF. Let the cookouts continue, I say! Made of Corten steel, this durable design will easily make the transition into fall [whenever it should arrive]. It's offered as a standalone model, or with one or two oak shelvesone or two oak shelves. The pedestal opens to store fuel, whether wood or briquettes. attika.ch