Bright Idea

I can't quite decide if the Acquaparete sconce is better suited to a contemporary bath or kitchen, or to a space with a more traditional slant. Michele de Lucchi's design [which is offered with a choice of clear or frosted shade] applies a modern approach to a conventional form, resulting in a fixture that's both fresh and familiar. Let's make this easy, and declare it at home in either setting. produzioneprivata.it

We Interrupt This Blog...

...to let you know that the New York City chapter of IFDA has graciously invited me to share my experiences and observations on ISH, the epic bath industry show which I attended in Frankfurt this past March. Date: Wednesday, 15 June; a reception at 6:00 kicks things off, with the presentation beginning at 6:30. Place: The Duravit showroom, 105 Madison Avenue [between 29 and 30 streets], New York City. For more information, click here.

If you're in the neighborhood, I'd love to see you there!

Refreshing

Summertime, and the livin' is sticky—at least in these parts. This outdoor shower offers more than a cool spritz on a hot day. Architecturally-inspired fabric panels provide both shade and privacy, and the base assures against sand or grass clippings clinging to newly-washed feet. metalco.it

Behind Closed Doors

Painted finishes and natural oak in the same kitchen? When done as skillfully as in this room, the answer is yes. But what really hits the mark for me here is the cupboard that's ajar. No puny coffee-maker garage, this—it's large enough not only to house several small appliances, but also offers ample room to operate them, owing to an expanse of concealed counter space. A modest triumph of cabinet design. Bravo! martinmoore.com

Unbalanced Load

The cantilevered control panel on this 1960 laundry pair is positively wacky. Called the 'Free Span' design, it purports to conveniently center the controls for easy operation, but such a claim seems to be, if anything, out of line. Maybe the electronics [Did those even exist in 1960?] that stored all the fabric-care formulae in use during the Age of Acrilan were too big for a single housing, and had to expand. In any case, the angular design is a far cry from the bloodless digital displays found on machines today.

Recycled Glamour

It's not your grandmother's lav—but then again, maybe it is, if only a small part. Embellished with vintage costume jewelry, the porcelain sink has a funky-but-feminine attitude. There's a bronze-glazed version that's decorated with gold-toned baubles, as well, and coordinating drain covers are available. linkasink.com

Diverging Streams

Newly offered in the US, the Milano showerhead has an offset design that capitalizes on the choice between spray and waterfall modes. Simple and expressive. fantiniusa.com