ALWAYS AUTHENTIC!

Last autumn, I had the opportunity to spend some time in Europe. One of my favourite memories was a visit to my cousin Inés Benavides’ home in Madrid and spending some time with her.  Inés is not only one of my favourite cousins, but she is also considered to be one of the top interior designers in Spain, so you can imagine how excited I was to share some time with her.

 

 

Other than securing the position as favourite cousin while enjoying my time with her, I also learned a couple of things.  Inés is not just well regarded as an interior designer  in Spain; she is also an accomplished furniture designer.   She has been designing pieces for the last 10 years with her cousin, Phil, under their firm Benavides y Camino.

 

 

One of Inés pieces “The Prensa” (Spanish for pressed, or squished) has become a signature piece for her and is rapidly becoming a staple in Spanish and European design.  Many of her design colleagues are supporting her in her venture, using the piece to inject fun and colour into their designs.  

 

 

One of the conversations we had was about something that is becoming a real problem across several industries – plagiarism. Sadly, as a result of her notoriety, people are now copying her work and taking advantage of her creativity.  With her piece, “The Prensa”, rising in popularity, it has subsequently had a tremendous rise of knock-offs hitting the market – so much so, in fact, that she had to go to great lengths to copyright the piece. 

When someone steals another’s  idea, they are completely ignoring the process that it takes to conceive an original piece. For example, the time spent sketching, sculpting and planning the conceptual stages, the cost of making  prototypes in addition to supporting the artisans that make these pieces.  

In our conversation, we discovered that we shared a similar theory that there are 3 kinds of designers out there:  (1) The designer who creates a signature piece/style and  deserves the recognition for their efforts, (2) the designer that supports and admires original pieces of works – that takes them as inspiration and re- invents them in their own way,  or uses the original pieces in their work supporting the original creators, and lastly (3) the designer who takes advantage and literally copies the work without any respect or ethics. 

 

 

 

Ross Taylor owner of Gabriel Ross has the best tag line for his business, and has been a big supporter of this movement – Gabriel Ross tag line really encompasses the real value of design  “Always Authentic” – As creatives we have the obligation to be “Always Authentic” and overall original.  This is the core of any creative business.

 

We have all seen this tragedy happen - particularly with mid-century modern classics by Eames, Saarinen and the like – but I wanted to bring awareness to Ines’s talent and spread the word about her original pieces. Like all good design, beware of knock-offs, you get what you pay for!

Support original talent, do your research and invest wisely!

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

autonomous FURNITURE COLLECTIVE

One of the most exciting  projects we have worked on this year is the development of the brand and graphic identity for Autonomous Furniture Collective.  A Victoria BC based company that develops furniture made with traceable resources by local designers.

 

I had the pleasure of meeting Kirk Van Ludwig and Jodie Webb a long time ago, and when they decided to start their own furniture company they, invited me to be involved with the graphics and brand direction.   Since the first meeting I was blown away with their product and concept for their shop.  After our first meeting I knew we needed to design something that is relatable not just locally but globally.  Their product has so many unique qualities that I wanted to be part of the brand: traceability, local design, quality design, unique materials, and the list keeps going.

 

Alta Table by Autonomous Furniture Collective

 

To have a solid product in the marketplace we needed to start developing a brand that will complement the product and the idea behind it, as well as where the product was going to be sold.  After all, Autonomous is a new business and we wanted to use their fresh approach as an advantage.

 

Walnut  Coffee Table and Ebony Bow Tie Detail

After much deliberation, the name was decided: “Autonomous Furniture Collective” – We wanted to give the shop a gallery feel and create a new experience for every customer.  Every time you purchase a piece you will know where the history of the wood or other materials used – their former life and where they are coming from; in addition to the designer of the piece – Autonomous’s designers are mostly local and talented artisans that are members of the Furniture Collective.  People who appreciates good design, quality, and timeless pieces that act as sculptural forms while maintaining their ability to be used in everyday life. The pieces become a part of your home and lifestyle developing a nice natural patina and depth.  Aging as they would in nature.

 

 

After we had the logo designed we needed to position the company, so we came up with a phrase to distinguish them in the marketplace - “the new west coast”. This phrase was born as a way to let the customers know that this is a new product and that it is possible to re-invent what people consider to be pure west-coast design.  After all, the main material in their furniture pieces is sourced in the west coast. We further this notion with the phrase “Sculptural forms that are at once urban and rural”.

 

 

With all the brand elements and logo in place it was time to start having some fun and develop their stationary package.  We wanted something sexy, unique and memorable; just like their pieces of furniture.  We selected a beautifully textured, thick paper in black and we foiled the card in gold to reflect that they are current and that the product is pure quality. 

 

 

The launch of the brand was at IDS West this year and it was extremely well received, the pieces have already been invited to 3 of the most prestigious show rooms in Vancouver.  Thanks to the power of social media, design gurus such as Margot Austin and Joe Ruggiero have shown interest in the pieces which is an incredible sign.

 

IDWest 2013

 

All in all we cannot wait to see how far Autonomous will go in spreading the product around the world.

 

Intrigued???  Visit their new showroom and be surprised!!!

 

2101 Government Street, Victoria B.C  V8T 4P2

www.autonomousfurniture.com

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

EYE CANDY OF THE WEEK – ARCADE CENTER TABLE BY THOMAS PHEASANT

 

 

 

PRODUCT

Arcade Center Table

 

MANUFACTURER

Baker

 

DESIGNER

Thomas Pheasant

 

MATERIAL

Mahogany solids

Giorgio Limestone top

 

DIMENSIONS

Height: 28 3/4 inches
Diameter: 34 inches

 

DESCRIPTION

This piece is definitely a  great lesson in geometry, and  rhythm.    The arch is not a very common geometric form to be found in furniture, so when it is used properly the arch can create a fantastic piece like the Arcade Table.  A piece designed by Thomas Pheasant that combines  his preference for traditional  lines with clean and contemporary approach.

 

“From the Colosseum of Rome to Ghiberti's Gates of Paradise, the arch is unique among architectural elements in its ability to move us. Its sense of perspective inspired Thomas Pheasant to create the Arcade series of tables. Through the kind of craftsmanship often reserved for a custom shop, a total of 10 sections are simultaneously cut on a radius, from very thick stock, shaped, tapered left, tapered right, tapered vertically, and hand fit to a perfect circle. The result is the kind of perspective sought by a sculptor, luring us to it, evidence that the hand can master and evolve all the mind can imagine. “ – Baker

 

YUMMY FACTOR

Sweet!!!

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

Eye Candy of the Week – Lui5 & Lui6 Arm Chair

Lui5 by Phillipe Bestenheider

 

PRODUCT

Lui5 & Lui6 Arm Chair

 

MANUFACTURER

Fratelli Boffi

 

DESIGNER

Philippe Bestenheider

 

MATERIAL

wooden frame with hand-woven caning

DIMENTIONS

103/72/123 cm

DESCRIPTION

I just discovered this beauty!  As you well know by now:  old world + new world = my favourite combo ever in anything.  The use of the pentagon shape makes this chair simple yet, elegant in its complexity. The mix of materials has enough tension to bring the piece to a new place.  The Lui5 by Philippe Bestenheider is definitely a statement chair, and I can see that it may not be too comfortable, but I just  love so much the lines, the presence and the memorability that has keeping me thinking about the fact that I wish I could design something like this.  

 

To even bring this piece further you have to see the Lui6 – I just want a pair for my country home and a pair for my sleek city pad. But first I need to get my country home and then to make sleek my city pad.

 

Lui6 by Phillipe Bestenheider

 

Which one is your favourite and why?

 

The Lui5 armchair looks back to the early 20th century in Europe. The classic wooden chair with cane seat serves as point of reference. The curved soft forms of the original model, however, are abandoned in favour of simplified lines and crystallised forms that multiply in space. The name is a clear reference to the pentagonal form which becomes the unit of measure of the structure. It is repeated from the cross-section of the legs to the construction of the panels forming the seat, back and armrests. Lui5 is also available in an upholstered version. – Philippe Bestenheider.

 

YUMMY FACTOR

HOT, HOT, HOT!!!

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

Eye Candy of the Week – Philippe I by Casamania

 

 

 

 

 

PRODUCT

Philippe I – Cafe Tables

 

DESIGNER

Sam Baron

 

MANUFACTURER

Casamania

 

COLLECTION

Philippe I is a mini-collection of ‘gueridon’ or small tables and café tables.

 

MATERIALS

Lime-wood, MDF, walnut

 

COLOURS

black/mirrored glass; white/extra-clear transparent glass

 

DIMENSIONS

low side table: L/W 42 P/D 42 H 42
tall side table: L/W 39 P/D 39 H 52

 

DESCRIPTION

With references to the 18th century French cabinetry tradition coupled with an attention to detail, these collection of ‘gueridon’ tables are that type of pieces that I love, as they work seamless with traditional or contemporary styles.

 

Sam Baron, created these tables that in my personal opinion share the same design aesthetic of Philippe Starck or Jaime Hayon pieces.  Pieces that have their own language, but a clear inspiration from the past.

 

I would love to use groups of these pieces in different sizes and finishes.  How would you use these tables?

 

YUMMY FACTOR

Nectarous!!!

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

Hanging Out in the Sunshine

Today is the first day of summer – Happy Solstice!!!

 

I wish we had more sun around here in Victoria BC to enjoy.  But this is not an excuse to share my favourite 10 outdoor furniture pieces for the season.   Furniture pieces where you can relax and read a nice book while you sip a refreshing drink.

 

Which one would you like to lounge in?

Royal Botania E-Z EZ 195

Designed by Zaki Molgaard and Bo Larsen

Leather Swing by Egg Designs

 

 

Royal Botania Wave WV Hammock

Designed by Erik Nyberg and Gustav Ström

Hanging Chair – Habit

 

 

 

 

 

Coocon Hammock

 

 

Ferlea Outdoor Chair

 

 

Hammock Chaise by Poul Kjaerholm

 

 

Jiella Chair by Samuli Naamanka

 

 

Hansa Hammock

 

 

 

Maia by Patricia Urquiola

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

In Conversation with Alexandra Von Furstenberg

Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

The name “Von Furstenberg” is synonymous with aristocracy, high-end design and fashion but Alexandra von Furstenberg is making her mark with her own collection of limited edition home furnishings that have dazzled design-geeks, consumers and critics alike. Alexandra’s 2008 collection was comprised of modern, light reflecting acrylic with high-impact, bold, neon-coloured edges. The 2008 collection was fun and pop-inspired with clean lines and a modern take on the art-deco style.

 

The 2009 collection from Alexandra von Furstenberg has similar lines to the previous collection but takes on new life with masculine, strong and sultry colours, reminiscent of gunmetal or a beautifully applied smoky eye. It is a more elegant and classic take on the fun, pop-colours of her previous collection and in combination with some new pieces with more rectilinear forms, these pieces are a real treat for homeowners with a more subdued or dramatic home.

 

 

Alexandra has a very strong background in the arts, she attended both Parsons School of Design and Brown University, majoring in costume design and art history. She began a career as Creative Director and later as Director of Image for her mother in-law, International fashion designer Diane von Furstenberg and decided to change her focus to interiors in 2006. Her exclusive collections have been very well-received and are continuing to grow and thrive. Alexandra’s her work has graced many magazine pages and high-end homes, we can’t wait to see what she’ll come up with next.

 

Please read on to find out more about this talented designer…

 

Iván Meade – What was your first experience with design?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – My first experience was designing costumes for the drama department at Brown University. My fashion portfolio continued as I worked alongside my mother-in-law for ten years. This unique experience in fashion was a great segue into a personal passion for designing my own living spaces. It was a natural transition into product design, beginning with the launch of the AVF collection in 2008.

 

  Gangster Console by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – Who or what has influenced your style?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – The style of my current collection, Voltage, was influenced by 1940s Art Décor, Hollywood glamour mixed with 60s retro, and a space odyssey, futuristic vision.

 

Bullet Cocktail Table by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – How would you describe your style?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – My style embodies the sleek, modern lacquered design seen in both my 2008 and 2009 collections. The chic, elegant lines of the furniture and accessory pieces are matched with quality craftsmanship.

 

M-!6 Cube End Tables by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What designers of past and present do you admire most?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – There are so many designers I admire, but if I have to call out a couple I would have to say Pierre Cardin - Although he was most known for his work in fashion, he was so innovative during his short career in furniture design. Also, Charles Hollis Jones for being a pioneer in Lucite in the early 70s.

 

Revolver Occasional Table by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What do you consider to be your greatest strength and your greatest weakness?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – My strength lies in the creative process and being able to bring my vision to three-dimensional form. The greatest challenge for me is to stick with my designs even when they are misunderstood.

 

Blacksmith Desk by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What was the transition like from fashion to interiors? Was it difficult to remove yourself from your successful career at Diane von Furstenberg?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – The creative process in fashion and interiors is very similar in that your sense of style is all around you - not only in the way your dress, but also in the way you decorate your home. It is a form of lifestyle. Of course it was difficult to walk away from a successful career in fashion, but it was a transition I was ready for.

 

Soiree by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What compelled you to move into interiors from fashion?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – It was a natural progression for me.

 

Axel Desk by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What books are currently on your bedside or coffee table?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – Frank Lloyd Wright: Complete Works and Helmet Newton are on my coffee table and by my bed I have Conversations with God.

 

XOXO Table by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What attracts you to acrylic as your medium of choice in your designs?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – I felt that acrylic had been so misunderstood and misused. I wanted to give it the design credit it deserved.

 

Sledge Cocktail Table by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What are you excited about right now in the world of design (this can be both fashion and interiors if you would like)?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – Consumers seem to be less conservative than they once were, leaving room for diversity.

 

Bootleg Trays by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What piece has given you the most satisfaction?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – It’s not really a particular piece, but the collection as a whole. When I launched my first and then second collection, the satisfaction of seeing all of my work come to life was indescribable. It was the birth of my brainchild, so to speak.

 

Blindfold 4 Panel Screen by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – Do you have a signature detail or design mantra that you apply to all of your pieces? If so, what is it?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – Each design in my collection features the lip logo on a numbered, dated and signed plaque. In a sense, the pieces become functional art. As for a design mantra, the words Fearless hang in my Los Angeles showroom. I think it is the strength behind these words that drives my creative force in this challenging industry.

 

Trillion by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – What is your next design venture?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – I hope to someday grow AVF into a full blown lifestyle brand, reaching all levels of design.

 

Sledge Cocktail Table by Alexandra Von Furstenberg

 

Iván Meade – Lastly, you have already created stunning collections of furniture and accessories that show your talent and growth as a designer. What would you like your legacy to be?

Alexandra von Furstenberg – To continue to have collections that adapt to the changes in consumer’s lifestyles – from their homes, to their clothing, and their technology. I also hope to evolve in the same way, as a designer.

 

ALEXANDRA VON FURSTENBERG

.

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011

Eye Candy of the Week – Twenty Two Chair

Twenty Two Chair

Today while I was trying to re-discover the ancient lost art of willy nilly I decided to have a peek in one of my favourite sites - Jaime Hayon’s website. What was my surprise when this beauty created with 22 pieces of the finest maple wood welcomed my tender latin eyes to Hayon’s creative laboratory.

A little bit Thonet, a little bit danish and a little bit mid century modern, this new piece by Jaime Hayon definitely wants to be a guest in my living room.

PRODUCT
Twenty Two Chair

DESIGNER
Jaime Hayon

MANUFACTURE
Ceccotti Collezioni

MATERIAL
Solid Maple featuring an upholstered seat and back, and has a leather-covered tray beneath the seat.

DESCRIPTION

Twenty two pieces of the finest wood make up this amazing work of craftmanship. Hayon's first collaboration with Ceccotti has been presented at the Salone el Mobile.

YUMMY FACTOR
Deliciosa !

Jaime Hayon

MEADE DESIGN GROUP - THE BLOG. Copyright 2007-2011