mundane aesthetic: apples & oranges

Throwing up some shade... finally.

The other day was a big one for me. (sorry, this may be a long post) I've been living in my house now for several years... got myself situated... bought "grown up" things, like a real couch... light fixutres... nice artwork... but there was one area that I kind of neglected, until now... proper window treatments. (gasp!) yes. I have been living without proper window treatments for years. But some who've seen pics of my place will say, but you have shades- they're white? Well, yeah... this is true. However, if you actually looked at what they were... you'd be surprised.When most people move into a new home, some people will throw up newspapers, or old sheets to act as temporary window coverings. Well, I used sheets of packing foam. With simple scotch tape, these sheets stuck to my windows. Because they were perforated, I could cut them perfectly to size. Because they were foam, they were semi-opaque, and let in nice diffused light. And frankly, they looked great if you didn't really examine them. So up they stayed... and never came down. Every now and then, the tape would wear out, or a draft would tear the foam or whatever, and I'd simply just roll out another sheet and tape it back in place!

I loved my packing foam sheet curtains. They were great. I highly recommend them if you are temporarily without curtains.

But there comes a time in everyone's life, when one just has to come to the realization that it's time to take some responsibility in your decor. You need to give the proper window treatments your house deserves. I'm not really a curtain/drapes kinda guy. So... I just went to the nearby 3-Day Blinds to see what they had to offer. Ok, one thing about 3-day blinds. It's not that you get your blinds in three days, but rather, it takes them 3 days to actually make your blinds (all orders are custom made). I did not know this. It didn't really matter, because I really wasn't in a hurry. (I waited this long right?) However, my 3-day blinds experience on the whole was a pleasurable one. In the end, I opted for the "dual" shade system. The "dual" shade is essentially two types of shades in one. They are the honeycomb type, but with both sheer and semi-opaque all in one piece. This gives you the flexibility to control how much sheer or semi-opaque you want. In the end, my windows are now properly covered. I feel better. It feels finished. My windows have... closure.

UPDATE! Method Bloq

I got an update to the post I did the yesterday, directly from the source! (and they gave me a much better photo!) The kind folks at Method told me that the "Bloq" line will launch mid-April (next month!). It will be available in four formats: body wash, lotion, shave cream, and bar soap. The Bloq line is naturally derived, biodegradable, paraben-free, and has not been tested on animals. There will also be four scents that have been designed to match four moods: green mint for the "go getter", water flower for the "pure minimalist", beach sage for the "escape artist", and citron leaf for the "eternal optimist." I can't wait to see what these smell like. I'm thinking I might be Beach sage, but I'm always drawn to citrus flavors... although I love mint too... I wonder what "water flower" would smell like?... Which one do you think you'd go for?

candy grass

Spring is here and thus comes easter basket season! Traditionally, the first step for filling your basket is with that annoying plastic grass that gets everywhere. The other day at Target, I noticed that there was this bag of "candy grass." At first I just assumed it meant that it was grass for candy. No big deal. But then I looked at it again, and flipped it over to see if it had ingredients. Sure enough, it was edible. I, of course, was intrigued, so had to try it. What does candy grass taste like? Well... like nothing. period. It has no taste. Its so weird. I was so fascinated by these non-tasting strips. I brought them into the office, and everyone else kind of kept eating them too. They just dissolve in your mouth. Someone commented that it kind of has that ricecake "non-flavour". They also look like shredded paper strips. I liked that they were white too, I could see using these for a really modern easter basket. Maybe something in a clear lucite box ... anyway... In case you were wondering what candy grass was... now you know.

Ceramics Greatest hits

I realize these have been out for awhile, but I've been looking for a good gift for a party coming up . These would make a great housewarming present (or for yourself!). Taking cues from the best of Mid-Century design, this 5 piece set is only about $40. They come in a cool round box too! Part of Rosanna Inc's "American Bungalow" series, it comes in all white, or mulit color.Also really loving these pretty blue toned ceramic beach bottles, also from Rosanna Inc.

Method Bloq

So more Method news... I spotted this tidbit in the latest Monocle magazine, about Method launching a new bodycare line this month. Called "Bloq"- it not surprisingly features innovative packaging, and as with all the Method products, is going to be readily available to the masses (ie. it will be at Target and Duane Reade). The picture they showed in Monocle was annoyingly tweaked with a red overlay, so you can't really see what it looks like. Has anyone seen it out yet? It looks cool from what I can decifer. The design was by Josh Handy, who formerly worked as product director for Karim Rashid. According to the article, the "Bloq" design was a "spur of the moment" creation. They originally were going with a round bottle design code-named "Seed" but found that they couldn't place it properly on store shelves or in the shower. Handy apparently then came up with the "bloq" cube design and everyone loved it and went with it. So many great designs come up like that. You start out one way, and then you take a step back at the last minute and realize it's not working, and then quickly everything changes but works out best at the end. Have any of you experienced that? I'm hoping to get more info on the Bloq, and will keep you posted...

blue munday: Bonjour Tristese

It's supposed to rain tonight... This is one of my favorite movie opening sequences by the genuis that is Saul Bass.

Tim Biskup

Tim Biskup is one of my favorite illustrators. Recently, I stopped by his gallery, located inside the Johnson Motor's store in Old Town Pasadena, and came across his fantastic book called "American Cyclops". This thin, but oversized hardback book showcases some of the work that was in an exhibition he did in Spain. The inside cover is printed in fluorescent orange ink- so cool. He's a local So California artist- and I love his blend of Disney / retro /punk /sci-fi /skateboarding style. You can get a copy of your own at via the GiantRobot store. ($39.95)

Out of the Ordinary

The April 2007 Elle Decoration (UK) has an incredible photospread called "Out of the Ordinary." The photographs are by Andrea Garuti, with styling by Chiara Di Pinto and Arianna Lelli Mami. The images were inspired by the still lifes of Italian artist Giorgio Morandi. I love the quietness and monochrome palette. Strangely I'm more interested in the props than the actual products they're showcasing. Anyway, there's a lot of goodies in this issue (as with basicallly every issue!) so definitely check it out!

mundane aesthetic: paper shreds

Does anyone else find paper shredding strangely cathartic and satisfying?

Blue Munday: Method Aroma Pill

Happy munday. I've mentioned before that my master bathroom is blue. I have this sorta medical/lab-ish theme going in there... Well, walking down the cleaner aisle at Target, I came across the new "aroma pill" from Method, and knew exactly where it needed to go! It's a plug-in, and was available in the same eucalyptus mint scent as their other bathroom cleaner (which I like- and its um... yeah, blue?). We'll see how good it works... anyone have this?

Spring Green, Nordstrom, and a touch of black.

What I love about this time of the year is you can always count on fresh visuals. Every spring certain colors, like Kelly Green, or various shades of chartreuse always return. This year, this illustration from Ruben Toledo for Nordstrom perfectly sums up the season (above). I love the addition of black and white which gives a crisp contrast and makes everything pop. Speaking of black, look at how great this outside slat wall looks painted in black, juxtaposed against the natural beauty of the trees and surrounding nature. (image from Met Home March 2007)Decor8 has a great post all about the many shades of the color green right now, and Design*Sponge recently had a "mini trend" report on Kelly Green too.

And back to Nordstrom and Ruben Toledo- Has anyone checked out the Nordstrom website lately? They have this special interactive flash section for their "designer collections" (last tab on the right) that is set in this "designer avenue" and feature more of the illustrations. It's really great to look at. Check it out!

Marc Jacobs crystal flowers

I didn't realize that Marc Jacobs has launched a schmancy line of china via Waterford. The standout piece for me is this set of Crystal flowers. Gorgeous. A set of three for $165.

hybrid

Poppy posted this great "hybrid stool"- I love how something so utilitarian becomes totally beautiful and delicate!

Miwa Koizumi

AT:NY posted this link to Brooklyn artist Miwa Koizumi- These jellyfish are made from recycled plastic bottles! Aren't they just stunning?

Tupperware: Transparent

Plastic is fantastic. I have always loved Tupperware. I think because as a kid, my mom would take me with her to those "Tupperware" parties, and I loved playing with all the fun plastic tupperware toys, and opening and closing the lids to the fun colors. Plus they always had good food and someone always made jello (yum!). Did you know that it was actually because of these "parties" that Tupperware because such a success? It truly is/was modern design at an affordable price. Anyway- there is now this great book out called Tupperware:Transparent. It comes inside in a custom fitted Tupperware case! Inside is a fantastic history of Tupperware with tons and tons of cool photos from their archives. There is also a pretty comprehensive photo list of all the Tupperware products from the 1960s- through 2005. It's so fun to go through all the pics and remember which ones your family had. A definite must for anyone that loves a little retro-cool nostalgia.

Blue Munday: What's up FOO?

Happy munday. I've been noticing another trend lately in all the decor mags, particularily in the accessories. Porcelain Foo Dogs. More specifically, turquoise porcelain Foo Dog bookends. Here is a pair from the March 07 Elle Decoration (UK) and one from the Feb 07 Elle Decoration (UK)and one from the March 07 House Beautiful (right) and a small tiny pair from the March 07 House&Garden (that I featured recently)
What's up with the Foo Dogs? Don't get me wrong, I actually love Foo Dogs. I have a pair in yellow in my downstairs guest bedroom. I found them at a thrift store during a trip to Palm Springs a few years ago, and snatched them up, (they were only $10 each!) It's interesting that they've been popping up in all these mags at about the same time.Looking online, I've found a few on ebay, but also found a source where you can get plaster ones, and then paint them any color you wish. Do you have foo dogs in your home? Does anyone know of any other sources for them?

OC news: Book Soup closing

For any of my fellow OC peeps, I'm sad. Yesterday I found out BookSoup at SouthCoast is closing the end of this month. They're currently having a huge sale right now though. I picked up a few things, but hurry cuz it's clearing out. It's sad. But at least the LA store is still open, just sucks we have to go all the way out there. First Rizzoli, now Book Soup... I wonder what will replace it?

Everything but not Soap!

My AT:LA cohort Gregory found this cup, toothpaste, and toothbrush all made of soap! So cool!

fabric wall inspiration

All I can say is this is fantastic and gorgeous. Embroidery hoops are cool. A great idea for anyone who has a fabric collection. Sorry, its a long image, you have to keep scrolling...
(Found via the Freepeople blog via Love Forever) Happy friday!

common cold soap dispenser

This is so hillarious and genius at the same time. They say washing your hands is a good defense against catching the common cold, and what better way to remind you than by having a giant common cold virus as a soap dispenser. cute little bug isn't he?

number lamp

Saw this "Memento" lamp in the February 2007 Japanese Elle Deco. It reminds me of the number cups I posted awhile back. These are by Tonerico. I love the lace-like quality of the shadows. I remember I saw it before in ID magazine, but it was nice to see it again. Not sure where you can get one domestically, but I guess you could contact the website for more info... numbers are cool....

Umbra concept store opening

Umbra has been a brand I find consistently produces fun, affordable, modern products for everyday living. Based off my last poll, it looks like many of you Happy Mundane-rs are residing in lovely Canada. For any in Toronto, looks like you'll be the first to get to experience the new Umbra concept store that will open this spring! It will be a huge 7000 square foot two story space wraped in translucent pink cladding, designed by John Shnier Architects and Figure 3. In addition to showcasing all of the Umbra products, it will also have a bookstore and serve as a venue for design events. It will be located in the Queen & John Streets area, so if anyone gets to see it, you'll have to let me know what it's like when it opens!

IKEA "Asker" container

Stopped by my local IKEA yesterday, to see if they had any signage or announcement about them starting to charge for bags, which I posted about on Apartmenttherapy last week. Anyway- For the past few months, I've been eyeing these ASKER pots. The picture on the packaging shows them as a flower pot for herbs and they also can be used for utensil holders. They work with the ASKER wall organizing system. They also come in a ledge version too, which I could see as being very handy in the kitchen- or even a bathroom- or work space. I couldn't find it on the US site, but they are on the UK site. Luckily, they are definitely in store (in the kitchen cabinet area)- and available in two sizes- I just love them though. I don't know what I'd do with them yet so I haven't purchased one, but the possibilities are endless don't ya think? Do any of you have one? What do you use it for?

bloom light sockets

Love these light sockets that Style-files posted today... They're by designer Mina Wu. I wish they'd make them for the US. Although, I guess if you were crafty with some paint pens, this could be a great DIY idea to add a little interest around your switchplate... just make sure you don't stick your finger (or anything IN the socket!)

Blue Munday: Kylie

Those of you lucky enough to live here in SoCal were reminded of why we live here: the fantastic weather! It was the perfect weekend to be outside... go to the beach, the pool, or just walk around in the sunshine. Speaking of which, it looks like this photo could have been shot on a beautiful weekend like we had. I give you the little (in size) but amazing, popstar Kylie Minogue. She is going to be the new spokesmodel for H&M's summer swimwear line and this is one of the promo shots. I love how it perfectly conjures up all sorts of ocean-y, water-y, clear blue-sky inspirations... and here's a few more things I've found that continue the aqua blues I mentioned recently.Top image, clockwise from left: turquoise vases from Jayson home, Loolo Ocean pillow,sky servers at Crate&Barrel
Bottom image, clockwise from left: coral vase from Anthropologie, glass Jellyfish paperweight at Zgallerie, striped umbrella by Brellabar via Blueprint #3, Dodu bed by BluDot

And finally, here's a classic Kylie number to get your Munday movin'...

lap desks

When it's not sitting on a real table, I have been placing my trusty laptop on a bent plywood bed tray. Sort of like this one.It's served me fine, but then last night I spied this little guy and just had to snatch it up. As you know I'm a faux-bois woodgrain fanatic, so of course I had to have it!It's from Target's Woolrich Kids collection. I can't seem to find it on their website, but it's $19.99 in store. Yet again, the kids department comes through with über coolness. (Or rather, I'm having a hard time "growing up!") Do you guys have a lap desk? and if so, what do you use?

Happy Mundane Birthday!!

Wow. Today is March 2, 2007. Exactly one year ago today, I posted my first Happy Mundane post. What a wacky/wonderful year it's been!

I started this blog as an offshoot to It's(k)notwood. There, we only post things that are faux bois, so I just needed an additional outlet. I wanted to have a place to document the happy things that I could see and also to appreciate some "mundane" things I think sometimes get overlooked.

To me, it's not really about where you live, it's how you live. Whether it's at a hip little boutique or at a "big box store", in the city or suburbia, or even in your very own home... in the sink... with a pile of dishes, there's beauty and value and good design all around you. It just take a second to stop and look.

I'm so thankful and honored that you've have taken the time to actually click over and check out and support my mundane musings this past year. My recent "where are you" posts have blown me away at the vast distances and locations you all are from. The interweb is the coolest! And it's been so great to connect with you, even if I've never physically met you. Humble thanks again for stopping by, and I hope you continue to visit!