Retail: Pulling Strings

Over the past few weeks we’ve been noticing a new trend in the the retail sector. Everyone from Custo Barcelona, Anthropologie and Isabel Marant has been experimenting with string. From florescent sharp edges to crafty corks and quirky block heads, each display reveals a precise and economical take on the brand. Using linear paths to lead the eye, these installations remind us of a recent feature in Theme Magazine. The artist uses electrical tape to construct optical vanishing points, a throw back to the basics and a reminder of what we all learned in art class.

March 22, 2011 | By: Shayna Kulik

Trend: Monocromatic Parts

When you follow retail design, it’s hard not to love small things in mass. Today’s feature covers the monochromatic side of commercial clutter. Using texture and shape to create depth, each of these installations keeps the eye roving.

This black sculpture by Louise Nevelson is part of the permanent collection at the Hirshhorn Museum in Washington, D.C. Each shadow box tells a story, inviting the viewer to get lost behind each shape. Using molding to fill their most recent window display in Chelsea Market, Anthropologie has created a white linear collage.

Simulating ropes using ceramic, the refurbished Westfield Shopping Center in Sydney, Australia tricks the eye with it’s fantastically intricate exterior.

March 2, 2011 | By: Shayna Kulik

Pattern Pulp Gift Guide, Part 1

For the procrastinators and workaholics in the bunch, here’s part 1 of our annual holiday gift guide. Everything’s designer friendly, smile-inducing and under $50. Enjoy!

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1. Dish Towel 3 Pack, All for Everyone, $35
2. Fat Dom’s T-Shirt for Selfridges, Lazy Oaf, $44
3. Dog Show Frame, Anthropologie, $24
4. Patterned Masking Tape, Cooper-Hewitt Design Museum, $22
5. Laptop Sleeve, Jonathan Adler (still available at the stores), $28
6. Medium Cable Knit Candle, Anthropologie, $30
7. Ironstone Print, Julia Rothman, $20
8. Barrel of Monkeys Umbrella, Terry Rosen, $30
9. Houndstooth Flask, ManEatingFlowers, $35
10. Beard Scarf, Lazy Oaf, $31
11. Detroit Blueprint Bow Tie, Cyberoptix Tie Lab, $40
12. Monster Hands Temporary Tattoo, MoMA Store, $7
13. Patterned Hair Pins, Jane Tran, $12
14. Mexican Bowl & Treat Jar Set, Small by Nature, $45
15. Eye on You T-Shirt, Mini & Maximus, $38

December 13, 2010 | By: Shayna Kulik

Repetition Elsewhere

The last time we saw handwork like this was from Arpana Rayamajhi of Nepal. This time around it’s from Stephanie Webb of England, thanks to Amy Borrell of the wildly popular blog, All the Mountains. Webb’s latest roll of wallpaper is part of Anthropologie’s Fall ’10 collection and is beautiful, busy tribute to owls.

September 7, 2010 | By: Shayna Kulik

Puzzling Ecosystems by Trey Speegle

This Holiday season marks the debut of Trey Speegle‘s exclusive line of home products for Anthropologie. The collection spans everything from pillows and plates to wallpaper and puzzles. This paint-by-number reproduction recently caught our eye, as it’s complexity is masked by clean lines and familiar shapes. While more expensive than your average lock and key table challenge, it’s worth every penny if you’re in the market for a nature inspired challenge. Innovation’s not cheap when executed artfully and Speegle’s new line adds a refreshing spin to familiar family fun.

November 17, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik

Follow-up: Bargain Basement Wallpaper Solutions

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Back in March, we fell head over heels for Anthropologie’s budget-conscious in-store kitchen display. This month’s no different as they tackle the back wall with checker-textured chalk. A brilliantly simple solution that adds umph to any wall. A can of chalkboard paint, chalk sticks and a sealant and you’re good to go- all for the cost of takeout.

By: Shayna Kulik

October 21, 2009 | By: Shayna Kulik