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Is it a container, a shelf, or perhaps both? Designer Charles Job wanted a shelf that was large enough for storage purposes yet was “plain and pure in its expression” as not to dominate. I can see it working well in the bathroom, kitchen, laundry, or even (as one of the suggestions) a planter for the terrace.

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These wooden (non-toxic, lead-free, water based stained) puzzles are nothing short of lovely. Whether for your own amusement during a work break or as a simple gift for someone else (adult or child), each puzzle has an infinite variety of possible patterns. We all need a creative moment now and then, don’t we?

Made by Grimm’s, Germany.
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So, this looks pretty simple from the front, but what makes it stand out is the handy storage space in the back for power strips or cable management. Power strips aren’t the nicest things to look at, and a desk that has a specific space to hide that and computer cords deserve a mention. I suppose you could float it in a room as well (as shown by the happy guy in sneakers below), though take note of the perforated panel detail.

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This faceted Terracotta pot by Nick Fraser needs to make its way stateside. Normal cylindrical pots are decidedly boring compared to it; plus, a few special herbs on your windowsill might deserve a fancier frock. Comes with a drainage tray.

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Sure, maybe your phone takes okay photos, but does it take weird, interesting, surprising, one-of-a-kind photos that only a pinhole camera can capture? And, did you know you can make a pinhole camera from just the stuff sitting around your house? With excellent information and step by step instructions (illustrated), author Chris Keeney has compiled a variety of pinhole cameras that you can make at home. Oatmeal canisters, mint tins, matchboxes, and more… all inexpensive ways to take some truly original shots. Check it out.

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Here’s two more tea towels to add to your kitchen collection. ‘Hard Work’ and ‘T’ towel, both by Poulier & Poulier Design. If you like the bus blind look, there’s also a fair collection of tea towels based on Sydney’s classic tram destination roll (see below for two examples).

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While this table lamp is a tiny bit high for my wallet, I do like the industrial feel. Designed by Jason Miller for Roll and Hill (you can also purchase the lamp here, fyi), the lamp was inspired by industrial parts found on Canal Street near Brooklyn. The Modo Chandeliers are also pretty impressive.

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Here’s an iPad sleeve that looks like a postcard from a special someone. Not that you need to pretend, of course, but it has a certain look that brings to mind an earlier era gone by (when people actually had to use handwriting to communicate). The leather-like paper is made from natural cellulose fiber and is water-resistant. A soft felt interior keeps your iPad safe.

Size: 28 x 22 cm.
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Have a safe and super happy Labor Day weekend! Posts will resume Tuesday, fyi.

Yep, it’s just what you think it is- a mousepad for your floor. Digitally dyed in pleasing patterns, these nylon and rubber rugs are easy to clean (machine washable!) and skid-resistant. Unfortunately, they’re available in only two sizes: 23″x36″ or 46″x66″.

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If you’re guilty of spending too much time in the shower, try to cut down on the dillydallying with a timer like this one. Each half rotation equals 5 minutes, and a suction cup keeps it attached right where you can see it. It’s an easy way to monitor your water usage.

Check out this lamp by designer Pavel Eekra. There’s no internal frame, just the 56 plates and screws configured in the pinecone form. Natural birch veneer is slightly transparent, which gives off a nice warm glow while also allowing light to be directed downwards. The lamp does arrive flat packed, so be prepared for a little assembly. To purchase, email pavel(at)eekra.com.

Designer: Pavel Eekra
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Talk about a bare bones cell phone, this puppy has no email, camera, texting, or ringtones. There’s no contract either, you just need a SIM card. Stripped to the essential ‘make a phone call’ feature, you can go anywhere and know you have global roaming (exception is South Korea and Japan’s 3G networks). Aaand, it has approximately 6 hours of talking time (and 3 week standby) before charging is needed. Lo-tech, indeed. Created by John Doe Amsterdam.

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Here’s a fun way to brush up on your modern art knowledge: the Modern Art Memory Game from AMMO BOOKS. It comes with a booklet identifying each artwork/artist/title, so don’t worry if your memory from Art History I in university isn’t up to par.
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No frowny faces allowed in the proximity of this print. It’s small, so you could fit it just about anywhere, and it would remind you to grow the heck up when you’re tempted to complain about something (anything).

Letterpress printed on heavy, recycled black paper.
Size: 8.00”³ × 10.00”³