Okay.  So, let’s go!

Wait a minute.  We’re here to talk about interiors, aren’t we?  And so we are.  Specifically, about a very basic, humble, overlooked bit of interior design, one which certainly could use some glamour and snap:  the shower curtain.

Somewhere in the broad field between the two extremes of utilitarian and opulent lies style, sophistication, and wit.  Check out these travel-themed curtains from the New York-based firm, Izola.

What’s more romantic than Venice by candlelight?  Or perhaps Paris?   Mmmmm…

Now, beyond the basic fun of the images, comes an added bonus: these shower curtains are made from PEVA, a vinyl type that emits no Dioxin.  I like that.  PEVA is also biodegradable, and I like that, too.

Izola offers nineteen such “eco-friendly” curtains.  Most are photographic-quality images of famous cities, including a startling view of the Brooklyn Bridge, but, if views aren’t your thing, there are also subway and geographical maps available.

As the bath water heats, browse detailed charts of the London Tube, or the subways of the Chicago, Boston, or New York Transit Authorities.  Muse over the intricacies of the New York, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego city maps.  Wonder at the isolation of Hawaii, or the immensity of California, or, if you’re in the mood to think internationally, peruse a map of the world (have the political boundaries changed since yesterday?).

In departure from these options is the whimsical Homebound, an original pattern created by artist Rika Shimada.  Although described by Izola as “a tribute to all things nautical,” for me Homebound evokes the work of eminent tattoo artist Sailor Jerry, which makes it all the more endearing.

~ Emerald

The Mix ‘n’ Match 11 Wallpaper Collection, by Kirath Ghundoo, is being exhibited there this week.  It’s an exuberant assortment of digitally printed patterns, designed to be used in any combination you enjoy.  Because there is no need to match or repeat, there is no need for wasteful cutting and scrap (a great bit of built in sustainable design).  You can even use the strips individually to accent a painted wall.

There are seven patterns altogether, with LAVISH above being my definite favorite.  Love the colors!

To see the rest of the collection, visit Kirath Ghundoo’s shop here.

Thank for visiting!

Rachel

The “Woolcoat” Chair, by London designer Sarah Louise Dix, is a fascinating – and quite literal – blend of fashion and furniture.  By taking a vintage chair, reupholstering it in a lovely fabric, and then integrating a men’s wool coat, she has created a piece of sustainable, yet functional, art.

Of course, if that is a little too much for you, there are some simpler ways to get your trend fix…

This terrific, Moroccan style pouf, by That Funky Boutique, was pieced together from vintage men’s suits.

Here is a great pillow made of vintage tweed, with a cashmere knit back.  It’s one of several fun pillows from Etsy seller Modifyd.

Here is another stylish pillow made of vintage menswear, this time by Emma Dear.  Such an interesting combination of tweeds, checks and pinstripes.  I love the little button details too.

Of course, we all need a little feminine balance in our lives, so I leave you with this….

The Corset Chair, also by Sarah Louise Dix.

I’m not sure why, but I suddenly got a little early 80′s nostalgia going.  Hmmm…

Anyway, This week we start with a bicycle re-built for two, and end with a love story about a reclaimed,… loveseat.  Enjoy!

This dynamic loveseat made from old bicycle parts is from Andy Gregg, as seen on dornob.com

Motley Drums by Channels Design

A nice write up on the 100% Design Showcase in London, from re-nest.com.

Joe Pipal cabinet via Treehugger

Another nice piece of London furniture, this is a cabinet by Joe Pipal.  Read the article on treehugger.com to see the interesting source for the reclaimed Wenge wood used.

And last but not least comes this lovely, Hollywood style story about the rise, fall, and rebirth of a pretty little loveseat, from Irwin Feld Design.  I won’t spoil it by showing how it all turned out – you’ll have to see for yourself!