beauty in utilitarian designs - a list by Kristine

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About this list:

By definition, utilitarian means having regard to utility or usefulness rather than beauty or ornamentation. I think this is where the future of design will change - I have seen a great amount of utilitarian designs that are beautiful, which is encouraging. Today, in order for a product to qualify as great design, it needs to have both form + function.

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Viewing 31-38 of 38 Items

Flip-Top CounterTop Cooktop Range

First to recommend

Description

Alpes Inox makes some of the most innovative designs for kitchen appliances and accessories. This cooktop range is brilliant. It simply flips up for extra counter space, without sacrificing the design part of your home. All their stuff are gorgeous and fun to look at.

Updated Jul 24, 2007

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Plywood Chateaux

First to recommend

4 people recommended this item

Description

From artist James Westwater, this 48x48 box on wheels is elevated from a crate to a dwelling by mere use of images and simple materials. I love the fact that a simple structure was transformed into a unique art piece by using imagination and creativity.

Westwater's goal was to create a sanctuary for people to escape to - whether to read, write, listen to music or work on the computer - the chateau becomes a private space within another space.

Updated Aug 15, 2007

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samoa rug

First to recommend

Description

I am a fan of non-traditional shaped rugs... The shape of this reminds me of a golf putting green or a pond, but in the fabulous orange color. It can also be used for outdoors, which is sweet.

Updated Nov 5, 2008

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Stingray Rocking Chair

First to recommend

Description

My God, I LOVE this chair. At $4,400, I may need to sell my dogs in order to possess such luxury. Hmmmm. Dogs are not happy right now.

Updated Dec 7, 2008

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reef shade structures

First to recommend

Description

I immediately think... Burning Man shade structures! I wish! Great design inspired by reef movements. Nice work by ivomotoscott architecture!

Updated Dec 11, 2008

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Ciussai heater

First to recommend

Description

Joint winner of Wallpaper design contest, the Ciussai heating coil was designed to be customized to suit your needs. It's so simple and brilliant!

Updated Jan 8, 2009

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Marais AC Chair

First to recommend

Description

I've always loved metal chairs, but they can be too industrial looking or too "euro-design" in style. These old school French chairs in alternative colors are fabulous. The chair was introduced in 1934 as a utility chair for the service industry. When a design looks great no matter the era, that is good design. (Oooh, and these are on sale for $125, which I think is very reasonable, especially for Design Within Reach.)

Updated Feb 22, 2009

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Reclaimed Apothecary Match Box Bottles

First to recommend

2 people recommended this item

Description

Designer Jen Pearson's invention is so brilliant, I want to talk about these bottles to everybody and anybody who will listen/read. Here is an item that has been around forever. Two items. Apothecary jars and matches. Pearson simply etch the bottom of each bottle to create a strike-able surface. These are functional art pieces, if you ask me. I love, love, love these! Super creative design execution here. (via Jen Pearson)

Updated Jul 28, 2009

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Kristine

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