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note: this is a special category used only when we wish to place the object in the e-zine “Editor’s pick” window.
Ten wind turbines.
If wind turbines are a turn-on for you… (more…)
Uzi-proof fashion.
Here’s a nice Valentine gift for that special person who likes casual, protection from the elements, and protection from Uzi’s & 44 magnums.
Plus it’s waterproof, with an optional stab-proof lining. It’s a bit pricier than one that protects you from bird shot. The sales rep wouldn’t say how much but our research guesses at about $10G’s USD. A less is more polo shirt is about $12G’s. Country of origin for bullet-proof apparel? You’re right! Columbia.
Designer: miguel caballero “The Armani of Armor”
Retailer: Harrods (London) and many other spots in Central America
Measurement gloves.
Value item: Looking for a ruler? There’s never one around when you need one. Too bad they’re knitted.
But they are a fashion statement of sorts and it does send a message that you’re handy.
via nerd approved Retailer: up to you
Snail mail. English style.
Classic via old style messaging: the “post stamp” from Royal Mail. “We always like to start the year with a classic and this year we’re launching our Special Stamp programme with ten, in one very special issue– British Design Classics.”
1st Class – K2 Telephone Kiosk
Sir Giles Gilbert Scott’s design bright-red phone box always stood out on the streets of the UK.
1st Class – Polypropylene Chair
Found in public buildings throughout the world, almost everyone will have sat on a Robin Day chair
at some time.
1st Class – Penguin Books
Edward Young’s book jacket design was instantly recognizable as a Penguin edition.
1st Class – London Underground Map
Harry Beck’s easy to understand design was based on an electrical wiring diagram.
1st Class – Routemaster Bus
Once a symbol of London to visitors from all over the world now only a few of Douglas Scott and Colin Curtis’s remain on London’s streets.
1st Class – Supermarine Spitfire
The superlative Battle of Britain fighter with its distinctive elliptical wings was designed by R J Mitchell who sadly died before the plane went into production.
1st Class Large – Mini Skirt
Mary Quant rewrote the fashion rules for women forever with her daring design.
1st Class – The Mini
Sir Alec Issigonis made use of every available space in the small car that was as much a fashion statement as a means of transport.
1st Class – Anglepoise Lamp
George Carwardine’s flexible design brought light wherever it was needed.
1st Class – Concorde
Aerospatiale and BAC’s supersonic jet was capable of twice the speed of sound and beautiful to look at too.
First class. Jolly good idea!
Producer: Royal Mail
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about ron kovach
Paul Smith. Pencil set.
Value item: Stocking stuffer under $25.
For the pencil sharpener crowd a set of 12 multi-stripe pencils with rubber tops in a matching presentation box.
100% wood, 100% graphite, 100% rigid cardboard box. $12.00US
Designer: Paul Smith (UK)
Fraktur mon amour. Blackletter.
Blackletter, without a doubt the stimulus behind the more efficient font designs we’re familiar with on a day-to-day. On the other hand, a now popular foreboding font for super-hip urban graphics and a time-travel message for packaging.
In addition to the thorough presentation of some 300 typefaces with dates, designers, and origins, you will find a facing-page design using the typeface. Many quite well done and some even exciting. Of course, I’m not the first to find the book spectacular. It won the Type Directors Club of New York’s 2007 Award for Typographic Excellence.
Designer:Judith Schalansky ( Berlin )
via amazon.com
10 water resistant – proof shoes.
Refinery29 uncovered some exceptional footwear styles for guys that use fabric and water-proof treatments in a modern, fashionable way. ( above, from left ) Acne for Tretorn Stroll High Sneakers (rubber galosh sole, water-resistant upper), $240;
( above, from left )Gram 383g Softshell Sneakers (rubber sole, waterproof upper, micro fleece lining), $130.
To see all 10, go to Refinery29.
The art of an election. 2008.
An election wrap up: more creative generated in presidential election 2008. Passion trumps strategy — the bulk unsolicited, unapproved by either candidate. (more…)
Congratulations president Obama.
During the early 1940s Charles and Ray Eames developed a successful technique for molding plywood into three-dimensional shapes, which led to the creation of a variety of furnishings and sculptures. You won’t find Eames donkeys however.
That said, if anyone finds appropriate donkeys, or other animals for that matter, please inform us.
marvin gaye sings american national anthem observed via designobserver
overheard: time to recycle campaign signs