bltd

If you’ve ever shopped for a sofa with a clean, minimal style, you know that most of the time they’re shockingly expensive. This Gray Sofa is not (in comparison). It has reverse-stitched seams, the requisite low profile, and an option of high or low arm height…or, do one of each, as shown in the image above. Custom fabric is also available. Curious? Yeah, me too. This may help your decision as well: each piece of Interior Define’s furniture collection* is made-to-order and every piece has a 365-day return policy. Pretty crazy (in a good way), right?
(more…)

This isn’t new, but it remains a stand-out piece in the seating/side table category. Designed by Ron Gilad in 2003, this stool/end table is quite the thing to have in your home. Leave the space empty and enjoy the inside/outside silhouette or use it for storage- it looks fantastic with stuffed with books.
(more…)

Ooo, nice! We’re big fans of Kaufmann Mercantile, so, of course it’s exciting to see their new line of select goods. The Gathering Bench is particularly lovely, as it is made from solid Black Walnut wood, and by woodworkers in New York, no less. Think of the design like a recipe; start with a base of Scandinavian lines, throw in a fair amount of Danish mid-century modern, and then add a generous pinch of Japanese minimalism. Sounds good to me. It would look damn good in an entryway or at the end of a bed, with or without miscellany piled on top.
(more…)

This Studio Chair ships flat-packed and is easily assembled, but you won’t find it at your local IKEA. Designed by Jason Whiteley, the chair is simple and precise, and refers to a type of common, robust chair originating in Switzerland. And, unlike some of the results from that aforementioned big box store, this chair is structurally sound and will withstand all manner of use, contract included. Easily assembly also means quick disassembly should you wish to pack it away in storage when not in use.
(more…)

This is a different sort of shell chair, made of multiple 4mm wire rods lined up for a symmetrical seat. It reminds one of Bend’s Seating collection, does it not? The ergonomic wire seat connects with a circular rim, giving the chair its lightweight appearance and minimal feel. As it’s made from painted aluminum, you may use the Shelltwo Chair indoors or outside. There’s a Counter Stool as well, fyi.
(more…)

Add the ‘Originals’ Bar Stool to your list of acceptable seating solutions, for it features a comfortable seat and nicely tapered legs. Fun fact: Ercol founder Lucian Ercolani designed this stool in the 1950s for Ercol’s own designers and draughtsmen, who drew the company’s designs on large drawing boards. You think it’s safe to say it won’t go out of style anytime soon?
(more…)

Serious and square, this solid walnut stool by Christian Woo does not mess around. There will be no leaning back or jostling around, thank you very much, because if one of these stools should happen to fall over with you on it, you’ll probably be hurt. The 1.75″ thick hardwood is hand-joined into a rigid form, with a large classic mortise joint as the foot rest.
(more…)

Fond of wire grids when it comes to seating (Bertoia, anyone?)? Well, take a look at Menu’s WM Lounge Chair. The light wire frame has an airy appearance, and the generous back means there’s plenty of room for a cushy throw pillow or blanket. Also available in a smaller dining chair, WM String Dining Chair ($249.00).
(more…)

If you’re in the market for dark and minimal pieces, have I got a treat for you. Blackcreek Mercantile & Trading Co. has recently expanded their collection to include a Bench, Low Table, and Step Stool. If the dark/black version doesn’t float your boat, you may also specify a bleached or natural finish as well. Traditional wood joinery sets the collection in the heirloom category, so it’ll last a lot longer than you (plan to note in your will which favorite kid/niece/nephew inherits which piece- happy thoughts, huh?). Each piece has a timeless, simple silhouette and will work in whatever room you choose.
(more…)

These pouffes (or poufs, as you might call them) not only add pattern and interest to a room, but also they add a soft texture to a seating area. Plus, you can’t go wrong with anything done by Donna Wilson, or maybe you can and I just refuse to believe it. I actually have one Henry and one Ernest Pouffe in my living room, and we use them every evening as foot rests. Super comfortable. Now on sale from The Future Perfect.

-Each is made by hand stuffing Calico bags and upholstering them with knitted panels, reminiscent of segments of an orange.
-Upholstered in a specially designed Donna Wilson knitted wool pattern made in Scotland.

Henry Pouf, 16″ x 16″, $393.00 $195.00
Frank Pouf, 31.5″ W x 16″ H, $625.00, (not available)
Ernest Pouf, 24″ x 12″ H, $608.00, $300.00

Updated price and link; originally from our archives (posted Jun 29, 2009).

Don’t worry, I’m still on the quest for the perfect barstool- something simple and modern, yet not too terribly expensive*. The Step Stool by Federico Gregorutti might suit your needs, as it fits the requirements and has a handful of bright colors to choose from, though the blue/black option is my favorite (as usual).
(more…)

You know how you’re able to tell you’re a grown-up? It’s not setting up a retirement account, or doing your taxes, though those things are important. It’s actually having a decent place to sit down in your home. As in, a comfortable seat that you’ve picked out (or paid someone to pick out for you) and would guide a guest towards when they visit. You can’t be embarrassed of it and it has to be nicer than what a 21 year old would buy from IKEA. Sorry IKEA and 21 year olds, but those are the rules.
(more…)

The Circus Pouf by Normann Copenhagen is so fun I can hardly resist adding one or two somewhere in my living room. Plus, it’s now available in velour, and, just in case you were wondering, yes, that does increase its appeal. It’s so round and friendly- I bet we’d all sit back and put up our feet more often if this little guy was around. Use it as a footrest, a coffee table, or an extra seat when guests drop by. It won’t lose its shape either- two different types of foam ensures softness on the upper and firmness on the bottom.
(more…)

Nope, it’s not the ubiquitous shell chair you think it is. This one is made of humble concrete and steel. Talk about an industrial edge- you can’t get much more industrial than ribar steel and plain ol’ concrete. It would be an interesting mix to have a set of these chairs around your dining table, don’t you think?
(more…)

If you think you know how to be lazy and while (or, wile, if you prefer) away the hours, you are in for a big surprise, because Muji’s Body Fit Cushion is now available in the US, and it’s going to test your limits. Just how long can you sit and read a book? How long can you nap? What about meditating staring out the window? I bet you can double that time, easy, when you’re sitting upon this bulbous mound. Muji doesn’t exactly declare what’s inside of the cushion, but that’s okay as I’d rather not know and pretend it has something to do with high tech science or magic (or both).
(more…)