I've never liked floor lamps but . . .

Floor lamps have never been my thing.  Sure, there have been some great ones through the years, most notably (in my mind) the Castiglioni Brother's Arco Floor Lamp.  But beyond that it take some work for me to get inspired. Recently, though, I needed to find a floor lamp for a client that was stylish and affordable.  I immediately thought of the many tripod style lamps, went looking, and found this great article . . .  it's worth sharing and imparts some common sense design concepts . . . in quick fashion.

great chairs - great value

I found this chair while looking for some inexpensive - but cool - folding chairs for my Tucson project.  Haven't made the purchase, but they are on the list.  Take the time to peruse the site -- yes, there are some really awful chairs included -- but there are some high style knock offs, some of which might well be acceptable substitutions for those who are budget constrained.  

wow lighting by mgx

While working on a loft in Adams Morgan I came across lighting by mgx and thought it worth sharing.  Take a look at Erik Levy's minishakes and Janne Kyttanen's lily . . . but don't stop there . . . these objects of illumination are worth knowing about.

worth reading

If you are interested in architecture, you will find this article in the December issue of Architectural Record of interest.  Design Vanguard 2010 features ten firms that follow ten new paths.  Absolutely inspiring.

interior design perspective: milwaukee restaurants

Dining out is a design experience.  Food, service, interior design and price are all factors that contribute to the overall experience.  Take Tai-namite on Brady Street in Milwaukee.  The food is A+, period.  I've been waiting for a restaurant with this quality Asian fusion cuisine.  I go for the fresh spring rolls and crunchy sushi but really, every dish is phenomenal.  On service, it's friendly but a bit distant . . . a little more interaction would be nice. This is by no means a negative, just an interesting point.  I'd be interested to see if you agree.  

Now, interior design.  The space is cool and hip.  I like what they have done with the space planning (overall arrangement of seating, sushi bar, etc).  It's a fun place to be and comfortable.  An appropriate urban vibe is created by the hard surfaces --- if you are looking for quiet and cozy, this is not the place.  Yet, it's not loud and clanky either . . . a nice balance.  The colors are nice . . . they've chosen an interesting pastel palette of blues, greens and yellows -- with a great stronger yellow-green wall towards the service area.  Did they nail the colors?  Not quite.  They were close, but I'd tweak the yellow/mellon color a bit.  Lighting?  Needs work . . . things are a bit bright and sterile -- a small problem but one I would address.

A word on their LOGO --- great logo Thai-namite . . . I love it.

Price?  Perfect.  Great food for more than reasonable prices.  This is a restaurant I've returned to often.  It's great to feel hip and urban in Milwaukee while enjoying excellent Asian Fusion food.