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...Milan Wrap Up.
Whoa! Milan Design Week is a beast unto itself! Here I am on Monday, still reeling from it all. I can absolutely recommend heading to Milan for this awesome event but be prepared to SEE a lot, WALK a lot and DRINK a lot!
You won’t believe it, but we never even made it to the huge official trade fair itself, there is just that much to see outside of it!
Anyway, I just thought I’d post a couple of the highlights from the last few days.
Dining Table in Beech Wood with Porcelain Top, “Gù” chair with Bamboo Paper Shell and Beech Wood Frame. From Yuang Exhibit.
There I was, admiring this beautiful range (pictured above), admiring the bamboo paper, the porcelain, the elegant, restrained design and so on. As I was admiring, I was conferring with Joel on how awesome Japanese design is and how the Japanese just ‘get it’ and just generally raving about how awesome Japanese design is. Anyhow as I further explored the exhibit, I realized it was all actually Chinese, from the Yuhang District of eastern China! Duh! People, don’t under-estimate what is coming out of China, they aren’t just churning out knock-offs for Matt Blatt – they are really contributing to design and their manufacturing standards can be absolutely exemplary too.
Porcelain Range, From Yuhang exhibit
From less exotic locales, Tom Dixon is going full steam ahead with his "mission to revive the British furniture industry". Tom Dixon was hosting another one of the shows within the show – MOST Salone, which brought together an exciting group of exhibitors including Tom Dixon himself of course. MOST was housed within one of the more interesting spaces, Milan’s Museum of Science and Technology, which created some striking backdrops and juxtapositions.
Tom Dixon’s new FAN range. Whilst Tom Dixon claims it to be his take on the British Windsor Chair, I see a closer resemblance to Warren Platner’s 1960's Lounge Range?
So, we did see a lot of great design but another thing I found really interesting was the exhibition designs themselves. I saw many products which didn’t really interest me, but their exhibit design was striking and inspiring. One example was Melogranoblu at Superstudio (ANOTHER show within the show!).
DROP Hanging Lamp in blown glass by Melogranoblu, used to fantastic effect en masse with lighting, mirrors and music. Brilliant!
What next for us on our global hunt? You’ll have to wait and see, because for now I need to have a little rest!
16/04/2013
Modern Times News
Day #2 Milan Design Week
Day #2 of Milan Design Week and we are still warming up, taking in all the sights and sounds of this amazing display.
We spent most of the day around the Brera Design District. Long a centre of artistic expression and design – during Design Week they take it to a whole new level with over 90 events all within a few city blocks.
The streets were heaving with design types from all over the globe, with the smell of coffee and pizza in the air - what an atmosphere!
From big name brands to things a little more indie, here is a snapshot of some of the things to be seen around Brera this year.
Revolving Room Installation for Kvadrat and Patricia Urquiola. Moroso chair, designed by Patricia Urquiola in her new range of Kvadrat fabric.
Kvadrat fabrics launched a collaborative collection with Spanish architect and designer Patricia Urquiola. Kvadrat make some of the worlds best upholstery fabrics and being based in Denmark are a popular choice for Danish furniture.
It wasn’t so much that the furniture or fabrics impressed but more so the set-up and installation design. The room was lined with tall panels that slowly rotated to give the room a new colour and feel every few seconds. I also loved the still life set up in the centre of the room (pictured above).
Missoni Home - "Zigzagging", Milan Design Week
Missoni made no small play on their zigzag motif with a huge walk-in sound and light installation. It was experiential and quite 60’s psychedelic but I couldn't help feeling that I was walking into an empty nightclub.
Lee Broom's Crystal Light Bulb, Milan Design Week
One of the highlights was Lee Brooms Crystal Light Bulb Shop. A cute little general store style display set up to sell this one design by leading young British Designer Lee Broom. Loved the set-up, loved the product!
Next it was on to EDIT by designjunction. Designjunction is a big event during the London Design Festival and EDIT sees a selection of the best transported to Milan.
It was a great balance between commercial and creative, the music was loud and there was a huge bar. We chatted to the agents and designers there and got very inspired and excited!
The Scandi element was strong with many Danish designers represented. Amongst the rest, a strong Scandinavian influence was plainly visible.
The cute and cool award goes to British brand ALL LOVELY STUFF with their small timber items for the home. Practical and beautifully made, with a humorous twist. We'd think it would fit Modern Times to a tee!
This is BEES NEES, just a tiny 3.5cm x 3.5cm, they are houses for solitary bees!! Seriously!
“…these bee houses are ideal for encouraging solitary bees into your garden to pollenate trees and flowers. These bees very rarely sting so make ideal pets”
You just never know what you are going to see next in Milan!
11/04/2013
Modern Times News
The First Taste Of Milan Design Week
We are here, we made it – Milan Design Week! Also known as Milan Furniture Fair, Salone del Mobile, Milano Salone or just plain Salone. I’m going to stick with Milan Design Week.
Milan Design Week is overwhelming in size, scope and variety – what to do first, where to go next?? There are literally hundreds of events and exhibits around the city, not to mention the sprawling trade fair on the outskirts of town.
Luckily enough, we had our plans for the first night. We were invited to the launch of The Royal Danish Academy’s exhibit, from their department of architecture and design. That’s right, we were checking out work from the up and coming designers who are following in the footsteps of luminaries such as Kaare Klint, Borge Mogensen, Hans Wegner and Arne Jacobsen. They've got some big shoes to fill! That being said, their was some great pieces, especially our favourite - the Widen Lounge.
The theme for their exhibit was Type, and it was based around creating a chair that would be an evolution or conceptualisation of the basic ‘type’ stick chair.
UPPERSIT by Anette Byberg and Camilla Aggestrup.
"legs, back and seat melt together both in construction and shape...our intention was to make a chair where all parts are supported by each other. Removing one 'stick' the chair will fall apart"
WIDEN LOUNGE by Jan Dethlefsen and Mithkel Masso
"a bold departure from the formal tradition of the Windsor chair, the Widen Lounge emits a playful, humorous disposition...the generous low and wide seat invites a casual intimacy...or an afternoon alone with coffee, music and a good book"
Alongside the Royal Danish Academy were other exhibits including Aalto University School of Arts in Finland which showcased stunning pieces from furniture to fashion to ceramics.
Shot from the Aalto University School of Design's exhibit.
The Kolding School of Design in Denmark also had a strking exhibit set up with individual pieces housed in repurposed shipping containers.
Here, Joel is checking out one of the Kolding School pieces - a huge chandelier made of 7000 lego pieces. Awesome!
Anyway, gotta get back out there. Stay tuned for more reports from Milan Design Week. Ciao!
10/04/2013
Modern Times News
Online Purchases Delivered For Free All Feb!
Thats right peeps! For the rest of Feb we are celebrating the launch of our new webstore with free delivery on all items. That means you can get anything off our website delivered to your door for free! Sofas, dining chairs, artworks and more all delivered for zilch, nada, nothing. What are the catches I hear you ask, well, some framed artworks aren't part of the deal and unfortunately this offer applies to metro areas only and it doesn't extend to Perth or Darwin. But...if you do reside in a more far flung exotic locale, get in touch because we can come up with a sweet deal just for you.
Save yourself (and your car) the trouble and get us to deliver your online purchases for free - for the rest of Feb.
____________________________________
13/02/2013
Modern Times News
Welcome to our new website!
Hi! Welcome to our new website! We are so glad you've dropped by.
This is something that's been in the pipeline for quiiiiite a while and here it is, finally! We'll be adding new things all the time so check back regularly to see the latest goodies. Hopefully it's all working ok, but let us know if something's up!
If you are wondering just what Modern Times Pop-Up Shop is up to, well, we are pretty much here to stay! We'll be hanging out at 311 Smith St until into next year and then finding a permanent home. We aren't quite a pop-up anymore are we!
At the moment we've got lots of locally made goodies in store perfect for Christmas presents, as well as an ever-growing range of beautiful vintage Danish furniture.
Hope to see you in person soon!
13/12/2012
Modern Times News
Lease Extended! Modern Times Relaunch
It’s time to celebrate! We’ve been offered a lease extension so we are hanging around in Smith St for a few more months at least. Yay!
We think this calls for a party! Join us this Thursday between 6 – 8pm. We’ve got a brand new shipment of vintage finds from Denmark along with new artworks and homewares. Whilst you check out our new wares enjoy a glass of wine kindly supplied by Dromana Estate and listen to the soulful tunes of DJ Ari. We’d love to see you there!
Here is a sneak peek of the beautiful new pieces we have in store…
Stunning, simple pieces in oak speak for themselves. Pictured here we have Kai Kristiansen Dining Chair Model 42 (we have a number available both in teak and oak) and the unassuming oak RY26 sideboard by Hans Wegner. The bright colours of Julian Martins artwork look so fresh with this combination too!
We are excited to welcome Amanda Dziedzic to the fold with her beautiful glass bonsais. Stunning grouped or as a special stand alone piece – the colours are divine! New works from popular Arts Project artists, Warren O’Brien and Julian Martin. Aaaand, how about the phenomenal grain on this Ib Kofod Larsen sideboard!! Whoa!
We have plenty of new sofas to choose from including this classic style in a faded camel leather. Cushions by Igloo Home are inspired by 1950′s stonewall designs and complement the mid-century style perfectly. New artworks by Ellie Malin need no introduction! Simply beautiful as always. Holding the setting together is another of our beautiful new sideboards, a H.W Klein sideboard in rosewood.
Hans Wegner Plank Chair teams perfectly with oak daybed by Borge Mogensen and get crafty with the many varieties of handy sewing tables. Handpainted clock hand by Sandra Eterovic, original artwork by Eleanor Voterakis.
H.W Klein recliners seem to call out for a cigar and a whiskey and Luscious Jungle brings life to mounted antlers. Screenprint by Ghostpatrol, original painting by Ruth Howard.
This is just a sample of the new pieces we have in store and we will have more pieces coming in over the next few months too. See our homepage too for more gorgeous pics of the new stock. Also stay tuned for our new website with WEBSTORE coming soon! We really hope to see you this Thursday night.
14/08/2012
Modern Times News, Furniture
Lease Extended! Modern Times Relaunch
It’s time to celebrate! We’ve been offered a lease extension so we are hanging around in Smith St for a few more months at least. Yay!
We think this calls for a party! Join us this Thursday between 6 – 8pm. We’ve got a brand new shipment of vintage finds from Denmark along with new artworks and homewares. Whilst you check out our new wares enjoy a glass of wine kindly supplied by Dromana Estate and listen to the soulful tunes of DJ Ari. We’d love to see you there!
Here is a sneak peek of the beautiful new pieces we have in store…
Stunning, simple pieces in oak speak for themselves. Pictured here we have Kai Kristiansen Dining Chair Model 42 (we have a number available both in teak and oak) and the unassuming oak RY26 sideboard by Hans Wegner. The bright colours of Julian Martins artwork look so fresh with this combination too!
We are excited to welcome Amanda Dziedzic to the fold with her beautiful glass bonsais. Stunning grouped or as a special stand alone piece – the colours are divine! New works from popular Arts Project artists, Warren O’Brien and Julian Martin. Aaaand, how about the phenomenal grain on this Ib Kofod Larsen sideboard!! Whoa!
We have plenty of new sofas to choose from including this classic style in a faded camel leather. Cushions by Igloo Home are inspired by 1950′s stonewall designs and complement the mid-century style perfectly. New artworks by Ellie Malin need no introduction! Simply beautiful as always. Holding the setting together is another of our beautiful new sideboards, a H.W Klein sideboard in rosewood.
Hans Wegner Plank Chair teams perfectly with oak daybed by Borge Mogensen and get crafty with the many varieties of handy sewing tables. Handpainted clock hand by Sandra Eterovic, original artwork by Eleanor Voterakis.
H.W Klein recliners seem to call out for a cigar and a whiskey and Luscious Jungle brings life to mounted antlers. Screenprint by Ghostpatrol, original painting by Ruth Howard.
This is just a sample of the new pieces we have in store and we will have more pieces coming in over the next few months too. See our homepage too for more gorgeous pics of the new stock. Also stay tuned for our new website with WEBSTORE coming soon! We really hope to see you this Thursday night.
14/08/2012
Modern Times News, Furniture
Time To Rug Up
Worlds away from Scandinavia in the Middle East there is an historic tradition of hand weaving beautiful kilim rugs. These rugs are interwoven with beautiful colours, pattern and symbolism that hark back to ancient times when these rugs were made by nomadic tribes people to be used as versatile floor and wall coverings.
Typical example of traditional kilim rug with tribal patterns in earthy colours.
—Photo by Jeremy Burgin
Fast forward to now and you find modern-day artisans refashioning vintage kilims to create a contemporary and unique range of floor coverings.
Overdyed vintage kilim in vibrant pink looks stunning in a contemporary setting.
—Photo courtesy of Cherry and Me
This rug is a Modern Times fave! Vintage kilim overdyed with rich indigo, cotton knotting appears like tiny stars in the night sky. Currently available but bound to be snapped up soon!
—Photo by Lauren Seeman
Vintage weavings are patch worked and overdyed, magically transforming historic kilims into pieces perfect for complementing a modern setting.
We all love timber and bricks but sometimes we need a bit of colour! Vintage kilims patchworked and overdyed in turquoise.
—Photo by Modern Times
Modern Times is currently featuring a range of hand-selected vintage rugs that can add colour and texture to your space. In these cold winter months a colourful woollen rug might be just what your living room or bedroom needs!
—Photo by Lauren Seeman
Until July 1st, Modern Times is also offering $200 of all Patchy Rugs purchases so now is the time to come in and see the range!
15/06/2012
Modern Times News, Interiors
Time To Rug Up
Worlds away from Scandinavia in the Middle East there is an historic tradition of hand weaving beautiful kilim rugs. These rugs are interwoven with beautiful colours, pattern and symbolism that hark back to ancient times when these rugs were made by nomadic tribes people to be used as versatile floor and wall coverings.
Typical example of traditional kilim rug with tribal patterns in earthy colours.
—Photo by Jeremy Burgin
Fast forward to now and you find modern-day artisans refashioning vintage kilims to create a contemporary and unique range of floor coverings.
Overdyed vintage kilim in vibrant pink looks stunning in a contemporary setting.
—Photo courtesy of Cherry and Me
This rug is a Modern Times fave! Vintage kilim overdyed with rich indigo, cotton knotting appears like tiny stars in the night sky. Currently available but bound to be snapped up soon!
—Photo by Lauren Seeman
Vintage weavings are patch worked and overdyed, magically transforming historic kilims into pieces perfect for complementing a modern setting.
We all love timber and bricks but sometimes we need a bit of colour! Vintage kilims patchworked and overdyed in turquoise.
—Photo by Modern Times
Modern Times is currently featuring a range of hand-selected vintage rugs that can add colour and texture to your space. In these cold winter months a colourful woollen rug might be just what your living room or bedroom needs!
—Photo by Lauren Seeman
Until July 1st, Modern Times is also offering $200 of all Patchy Rugs purchases so now is the time to come in and see the range!
15/06/2012
Modern Times News, Interiors
Opening Night Paparazzi
Thanks to everyone for coming along to our opening on Friday night. What I should say is, THANK YOU to everyone for spreading the word because the turn out was IMPRESSIVE! I think we would have had 200 people through the door. We were so happy to get the doors open and we were setting up until the very last minute! It was great to christen the new incarnation of 311 Smith St with a bit of a do and here are some pics of the night.
Ingmar heading in to the fray, bless his cotton socks!
We didn't quite get rid of all the pink but no one seemed to mind.
Lauren and Dave from Patchy Rugs with their friend Liz who went home with a gorgeous Sandra Eterovic print. Good choice Liz!
Darren Henderson in the foreground - he paints the cute owls on wood that we have in the shop.
Phil and Scotty from Philip Stokes Glass Studio came along with their friend whose name has escaped me, sorry! (I can only remember that his name began with C...I think). Very nice guys anyway!
Sim and Emiko were amongst quite a few crew from Arts Project Australia that they had rounded up to attend. Thanks guys!
TwoOne and Bonsai who both do amazing stuff like paint enormous bisons and other beautiful things(TwoOne) and hand stitch awesome leather accessories (Bonsai), also known as Hiro and Scotty, who have been kind enough to be part of Modern Times and I haven't even put their stuff on the website yet. Sorry guys! Come in and check it out in the meantime!
Ellie Malin - as pretty as her prints! Also, an amazing helper - thank you!
Kids are welcome!
Me trying to be cool, calm and collected...
Joel trying to be cool, calm and collected...
Our other amazing helpers - from left: Eleanor Voterakis (who also does beautiful drawings in graphite and coloured pencil), Katina and Carmen. Thanks guys!
We followed up the opening with an excellent weekend of trading and a warm welcome back from everyone on Smith St. We look forward to the next couple of months!
23/04/2012
Modern Times News
Launch eve this Friday...
I hope you will join us for a drink, tunes and shopping this Friday night, 20th April. The big reveal kicks off at 6pm, 311 Smith St, Collingwood, wrapping up at 8pm.
18/04/2012
Modern Times News
Modern Times Pop-Up Shop 3. Wow!
I can't believe we are about to launch pop-up number 3. Amazing! We have got a fantastic space and a truckload (a very very large truck!) of new vintage pieces from Denmark.
Now...how could a room chock-full of vintage Danish furniture possibly be improved? ...By adding the work of 50 contemporary Australian artists and designers!
We have gone from having around 10 artists at the first pop-up to now having 50! I am really passionate about this side of the business. Every artists work excites me and inspires me in some way and I think it is fabulous to bring it together with this beautiful furniture. So who are they?? Well, I'll save listing them all for later and start with a couple of new artists we have on board who I am particularly excited about. I discovered the work of Julian Martin and Warren O'Brien through Arts Project Australia.
Julian Martin, Not Titled (blue shapes on white), pastel on paper, 500 x 700mm,2009
Julian's creates these flattened graphic compositions which are given amazing depth and character through his use masterly of pastel. The surface of Julian's work is built up meticulously to create an almost velvet like texture. The photo really doesn't do his work justice but they are so beautiful. Modern Times is lucky enough to be hanging a number of Julian's work both large and small. Warren O'Brien, on the other hand, has a far looser style. Warren's paintings are these expressionist colour studies with a sense of movement and intensity that is quite captivating. Warren's repetitive use of the arc motif creates layers of 'windows' that you can look through to see the different layers of texture and colour. It's pretty different to the graphic stuff we've had before but I think they are going to work so well the mid-century furniture. Check out these examples...
Warren O'Brien, Not titled (blue, teal, pink arches), ink on paper, 560 x 380mm, 2010
Warren O'Brien, Not titled (yellow arches), acrylic and pastel on paper, 560 x 760mm, 2010
Wow, already such a long post and I've only spoken about two artists. Ok, moving right along... Ellie Malin has some gorgeous new work, referencing mountains this time, but still with her signature use of colour, shape, and bold use of white space.
Ellie Malin, Mountains, woodblock print, 1200 x 800mm, 2012
It seems mountains are a bit of a theme at the moment. Liesl Pfeffer has been so kind to arrange getting some of her works to us even though she now lives in New York! Thanks Liesl! Liesl's photo-media collages have the impact of a bold graphic image but need close inspection to reveal the whole story.
Liesl Pfeffer, The Mountains Wait, Archival pigment ink on Hahnemuhle paper, 50 x 50 cm, edition of 10, 2009
Works by Belinda Suzette, Nani Puspasari, Madeleine Stamer, Ghostpatrol, Sandra Eterovic and Darren Henderson are more on the illustrative side. A number of these artists also produce open edition digital prints which make building your art collection that little bit easier and they make great gifts too.
Clockwise from top: Nani Puspasari, Nature, Ink and thread on paper | Belinda Suzette, The Viking, digital print | Darren Henderson, Various owls, Spray enamel on wood
I can't sign off without posting a pic of Kate Banazi's work. It's packed with punch and it is beautifully framed by bespoke framers United Measures. This is one of the works we have available.
Kate Banazi, Sitting Sun, Silkscreen print, 50 x 76 cm, edition of 3
Whilst all these artists do represent a visual variety, they all complement the mid-century/vintage/retro/modernist aesthetic. I hope you pop in and see the shop for yourself.
This is the full list:
ART | Belinda Suzette | Carolyn Hawkins | Darren Henderson | Eleanor Voterakis | Ellie Malin | Ghostpatrol | Julian Martin | Julie Paterson | Kate Banazi | Liesl Pfeffer | Madeleine Stamer | Nani Puspasari | Draw!Pilgrim | Sandra Eterovic | Tiel Seivl-Keevers | Tim Gresham | TwoOne | Warren O'Brien
HOMEWARES | Ella Schwartz | FromWoopWoop | Funky Wombat Textiles | Luscious Jungle | Odds and Ends | Ouchflower | Patchy Rugs | Penelope Hunt | Pom by Pomegranate | RetroPrintRevival | Stämpel | Treehorn Design
GLASS | Phillip Stokes
CERAMICS | Adriana Christianson | Christopher Plumridge | Ingrid Tufts | Sophie Harle | Tara Shackell
JEWELLERY/ACCESSORIES | And O Design | Dani M | Emily Green | Lucy Hearn | Tailfeather
SCULPTURE | Peter McLisky
14/04/2012
Modern Times News, Art
Modern Times Pop-Up Shop 3. Wow!
I can't believe we are about to launch pop-up number 3. Amazing! We have got a fantastic space and a truckload (a very very large truck!) of new vintage pieces from Denmark.
Now...how could a room chock-full of vintage Danish furniture possibly be improved? ...By adding the work of 50 contemporary Australian artists and designers!
We have gone from having around 10 artists at the first pop-up to now having 50! I am really passionate about this side of the business. Every artists work excites me and inspires me in some way and I think it is fabulous to bring it together with this beautiful furniture. So who are they?? Well, I'll save listing them all for later and start with a couple of new artists we have on board who I am particularly excited about. I discovered the work of Julian Martin and Warren O'Brien through Arts Project Australia.
Julian Martin, Not Titled (blue shapes on white), pastel on paper, 500 x 700mm,2009
Julian's creates these flattened graphic compositions which are given amazing depth and character through his use masterly of pastel. The surface of Julian's work is built up meticulously to create an almost velvet like texture. The photo really doesn't do his work justice but they are so beautiful. Modern Times is lucky enough to be hanging a number of Julian's work both large and small. Warren O'Brien, on the other hand, has a far looser style. Warren's paintings are these expressionist colour studies with a sense of movement and intensity that is quite captivating. Warren's repetitive use of the arc motif creates layers of 'windows' that you can look through to see the different layers of texture and colour. It's pretty different to the graphic stuff we've had before but I think they are going to work so well the mid-century furniture. Check out these examples...
Warren O'Brien, Not titled (blue, teal, pink arches), ink on paper, 560 x 380mm, 2010
Warren O'Brien, Not titled (yellow arches), acrylic and pastel on paper, 560 x 760mm, 2010
Wow, already such a long post and I've only spoken about two artists. Ok, moving right along... Ellie Malin has some gorgeous new work, referencing mountains this time, but still with her signature use of colour, shape, and bold use of white space.
Ellie Malin, Mountains, woodblock print, 1200 x 800mm, 2012
It seems mountains are a bit of a theme at the moment. Liesl Pfeffer has been so kind to arrange getting some of her works to us even though she now lives in New York! Thanks Liesl! Liesl's photo-media collages have the impact of a bold graphic image but need close inspection to reveal the whole story.
Liesl Pfeffer, The Mountains Wait, Archival pigment ink on Hahnemuhle paper, 50 x 50 cm, edition of 10, 2009
Works by Belinda Suzette, Nani Puspasari, Madeleine Stamer, Ghostpatrol, Sandra Eterovic and Darren Henderson are more on the illustrative side. A number of these artists also produce open edition digital prints which make building your art collection that little bit easier and they make great gifts too.
Clockwise from top: Nani Puspasari, Nature, Ink and thread on paper | Belinda Suzette, The Viking, digital print | Darren Henderson, Various owls, Spray enamel on wood
I can't sign off without posting a pic of Kate Banazi's work. It's packed with punch and it is beautifully framed by bespoke framers United Measures. This is one of the works we have available.
Kate Banazi, Sitting Sun, Silkscreen print, 50 x 76 cm, edition of 3
Whilst all these artists do represent a visual variety, they all complement the mid-century/vintage/retro/modernist aesthetic. I hope you pop in and see the shop for yourself.
This is the full list:
ART | Belinda Suzette | Carolyn Hawkins | Darren Henderson | Eleanor Voterakis | Ellie Malin | Ghostpatrol | Julian Martin | Julie Paterson | Kate Banazi | Liesl Pfeffer | Madeleine Stamer | Nani Puspasari | Draw!Pilgrim | Sandra Eterovic | Tiel Seivl-Keevers | Tim Gresham | TwoOne | Warren O'Brien
HOMEWARES | Ella Schwartz | FromWoopWoop | Funky Wombat Textiles | Luscious Jungle | Odds and Ends | Ouchflower | Patchy Rugs | Penelope Hunt | Pom by Pomegranate | RetroPrintRevival | Stämpel | Treehorn Design
GLASS | Phillip Stokes
CERAMICS | Adriana Christianson | Christopher Plumridge | Ingrid Tufts | Sophie Harle | Tara Shackell
JEWELLERY/ACCESSORIES | And O Design | Dani M | Emily Green | Lucy Hearn | Tailfeather
SCULPTURE | Peter McLisky
14/04/2012
Modern Times News, Art
Good News Story
They say the week between Christmas and New Years is a slow news week... Well, that really worked to our advantage when The Age published a story about the pop-up trend featuring Modern Times! Published Thursday 29th December, our picture was emblazoned across a large proportion of page 4. Us! in The Age!! Thanks to everyone who popped in after seeing it and to all our new newsletter subscribers. If you missed it you can read the whole article online here.
30/12/2011
Modern Times News
Christmas Gift Ideas from $15. Woo!
If you are anything like me, you have barely started on your Christmas shopping. Eek! Well, I guess I have an unfair head start with all the beautiful pieces in the shop right at my fingertips... Here are some of my faves that are still available. What could be a better gift than something gorgeous - designed and made in Melbourne!
Red Fly Agaric Mushroom Hand-painted and hand-cut plywood sculpture by Sandra Eterovic $139
Benday Bird Calico Tote Bag available in green and raspberry. By Draw! Pilgrim $15 Bargain!!
Clockwise from left: Assemblage III, One-off wood block print by Ellie Malin $850 | Celadon Sweater Free-standing Clock Hand-painted and hand-cut plywood by Sandra Eterovic $175 | Knitted Cactus in Collectable Danish Ceramic Pot by Odds and EndS $120 | 'Palm Springs' Style Cactus (this one is real!!) by Luscious Jungle $120
Succulent Graphite, watercolour and coloured pencil on paper. By Eleanor Voterakis $590
Folk Face Cushion by Beci Orpin. Hand embroidered wool cushion cover with insert $100 | Stouby 2 Seater Sofa in Caramel Leather $1900
Mini Macrame Hand knotted plant hangers. Vessel and plant included! by Ouchflower from $100
Meow Girl Jewellery The cutest porcelain animals on silvertone chain from $30
Polygramatic Wall Hanging Collage on laser cut plywood by Emily Green $66
20/12/2011
Modern Times News
**Looking Pretty**
So, the pics of the opening are all very nice but what about pics of STUFF! I thought it was worth posting a few pics of the shop all set up and looking pretty. With pieces flying out of the shop at a rapid rate, it won't look this pretty for very long! I'm not sure the pics do our little shop justice but if you can't make it in and see it for yourself, they will just have to do!
PH5 Pendant Light | RetroPrint Revival lampshade on Danish Modern base (background)
Borge Mogensen Spanish Chair | Patchy Rug | Odds and EndS Knitted Cactus in vintage pot
Christian Dell 6556 Super Lamp | Tara Shackell 'Place' vase | Claystone Pottery Lidded Container | Luscious Jungle 'Palm Springs' Cactus | Printspace 'Garden Collage'
Jo Grant Tea Towel Landscapes | Ellie Malin 'Fractal Cloud' print | Easy Chair in Oak by unknown designer | My Poppet Felt Owl | Teak Side Table | Arne Vodder Sideboard with Tambour doors
15/12/2011
Modern Times News
Pop-Up2....launches!
We've upped the ante with our second pop-up shop, this time in Collingwood. It is a big beautiful shop in the heart of Smith Street and we opened the doors last Friday night with a great turn out. It was a great night and a nice warm-up to a very busy weekend! Thank you to everyone who has paid us a visit thus far and we look forward to meeting more of you over the next three weeks. Now for some pics of the opening!
12/12/2011
Modern Times News
Preview and Drinks...
Looking forward to seeing you all this Friday. It will be a great chance to see all our great pieces and a chance to purchase before the masses! Many pieces are rare and one-off so its worth taking this opportunity to see it first!
03/12/2011
Modern Times News
It's official!
This is an "official announcement". No, not really, but I was just organising a press release and thought I may as well post a bit of a version on here as a formal way of saying we are ON from December 10th!
Riding on the success of our first pop-up in May this year, we are all set to open Modern Times Pop-Up Shop2. Crossing the river this time, to a vacant shop in Collingwood, Modern Times Pop-Up Shop2 promises to deliver more stunning mid-century Danish furniture alongside locally designed art and homewares that complement the Modernist style.
Borge Mogensens Spanish Chair, Overdyed patchwork rug from Patchy Rugs, Ellie Malin linocut, Rosewood Sideboard, Odds&EndS knitted Cactus, Christopher Plumridge's Floating Bowl
After receiving such a positive response to our first pop-up, Joel and I put our heads together to make Pop-Up Shop2 even bigger and better than the first, and while we have got together an amazing collection of original vintage furniture from Denmark, what really sets it apart from the first pop-up is the art and homewares.
“The art and homewares were so well received last time I thought it was worth focusing on more. People just loved the fact there are talented local designers creating pieces that sit at home with the mid-century modern aesthetic. This encouraged me to cast the net wider and I’m really proud of the number and quality of artists on board this time round.”
Some stand-out pieces from the thirty different artists include the playful linocut prints of Ellie Malin, Scandinavian inspired ceramics by Christopher Plumridge, not to mention prints by Beci Orpin and a range of jewellery including the now ubiquitous necklaces of Emily Green.
Emily Green Beaded Necklaces and Brooches, Ingrid Tufts Ceramics, Odds&EndS Knitted Cactus, Christopher Plumridge Lidded Box, Dani M Jewellery
Sandra Eterovic Painted Plywood Sculpture
Whilst you ponder your purchases you can stretch out on the vintage leather sofas or try out the more striking and collectable pieces such as the iconic Spanish Chair by Danish design luminary Borge Mogenson or the Safari Chair by Kaare Klint. My hot tip is Modern Times Pop-Up2 is the place to do your Christmas shopping this year.
Modern Times Pop-Up Shop2 opens December 10th - December 31st. Preview evening Friday 9th December 6-8pm proudly supported by Pyren Vineyard
23/11/2011
Modern Times News
Cul-de-sac! Cul-de-sac!
I am so excited about this post....can you tell? I want to introduce these beautiful graphic prints by Adelaide design studio cul-de-sac. Art director and graphic designer, Marco Cicchianni, has created these limited edition prints taking inspiration from Danish design, Italian style and the punch of Pop Art. What an awesome combination!
You may well have heard of them before today...Since launching the series in May this year, the cul-de-sac prints have been featured on some of my favourite design blogs such as Design Milk and Design Sponge and most recently were in House and Garden magazine AND Marie Claire! These prints add fantastic visual impact to any interior at a mighty 841 x 1189cm!
So, it is not without a little bit of pride that I'm telling you - cul-de-sac prints will be hanging on the walls of Modern Times Pop-Up2. It is the first time the prints will be seen in Melbourne so come in once we launch to get the full impact of these large scale prints. They are limited edition too so once they are gone, they are gone!
17/11/2011
Art, Modern Times News
Cul-de-sac! Cul-de-sac!
I am so excited about this post....can you tell? I want to introduce these beautiful graphic prints by Adelaide design studio cul-de-sac. Art director and graphic designer, Marco Cicchianni, has created these limited edition prints taking inspiration from Danish design, Italian style and the punch of Pop Art. What an awesome combination!
You may well have heard of them before today...Since launching the series in May this year, the cul-de-sac prints have been featured on some of my favourite design blogs such as Design Milk and Design Sponge and most recently were in House and Garden magazine AND Marie Claire! These prints add fantastic visual impact to any interior at a mighty 841 x 1189cm!
So, it is not without a little bit of pride that I'm telling you - cul-de-sac prints will be hanging on the walls of Modern Times Pop-Up2. It is the first time the prints will be seen in Melbourne so come in once we launch to get the full impact of these large scale prints. They are limited edition too so once they are gone, they are gone!
17/11/2011
Art, Modern Times News
Staple Sofas
The Danish style sofa has become somewhat of an interior decorating staple. At Modern Times, we love a well-worn leather sofa but you can find brand-spanking-new leather sofas from long-running Danish manufacturers, Mogens Hansen and Stouby, or Australian vintage versions from manufacturers like Fler and Tessa. We have selected some fabulous Danish leather sofas, which will be available at our upcoming pop-up shop.
The vintage leather sofas take on a beautiful patina of age which adds so much character and texture. This idea is of age adding character is beautifully articulated by the Japanese notion of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection, age and time worn irregularity.
This is my personal favourite - wabi-sabi at its best. I’m sure it will be snapped up very quickly.
Sofas and daybeds, new and old, in materials such as leather, wool, teak, rosewood and beech - everyone has their own favourite characteristics they are looking for in the perfect sofa. We love them in all their guises (save cheap knockoffs!) and one of the reasons they are so popular is that they can look just brilliant in all styles of interiors.
This is one of the Stouby sofas that will be in store, comfy caramel goodness!
Stouby is considered one of the finest manufacturers of the classic Danish sofa, second only to Borge Mogensen. The high quality of the leathers, dyes, fills and construction is what sets them apart from other manufacturers. Stouby was established way back in 1902 and still operates today, producing sofas in the Danish tradition, albeit in some more contemporary styles.
Come in to Modern Times Pop-Up2, launching December 9th, and see which one you like the most!
24/10/2011
Modern Times News, Design, Furniture
Staple Sofas
The Danish style sofa has become somewhat of an interior decorating staple. At Modern Times, we love a well-worn leather sofa but you can find brand-spanking-new leather sofas from long-running Danish manufacturers, Mogens Hansen and Stouby, or Australian vintage versions from manufacturers like Fler and Tessa. We have selected some fabulous Danish leather sofas, which will be available at our upcoming pop-up shop.
The vintage leather sofas take on a beautiful patina of age which adds so much character and texture. This idea is of age adding character is beautifully articulated by the Japanese notion of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection, age and time worn irregularity.
This is my personal favourite - wabi-sabi at its best. I’m sure it will be snapped up very quickly.
Sofas and daybeds, new and old, in materials such as leather, wool, teak, rosewood and beech - everyone has their own favourite characteristics they are looking for in the perfect sofa. We love them in all their guises (save cheap knockoffs!) and one of the reasons they are so popular is that they can look just brilliant in all styles of interiors.
This is one of the Stouby sofas that will be in store, comfy caramel goodness!
Stouby is considered one of the finest manufacturers of the classic Danish sofa, second only to Borge Mogensen. The high quality of the leathers, dyes, fills and construction is what sets them apart from other manufacturers. Stouby was established way back in 1902 and still operates today, producing sofas in the Danish tradition, albeit in some more contemporary styles.
Come in to Modern Times Pop-Up2, launching December 9th, and see which one you like the most!
24/10/2011
Modern Times News, Design, Furniture
Staple Sofas
The Danish style sofa has become somewhat of an interior decorating staple. At Modern Times, we love a well-worn leather sofa but you can find brand-spanking-new leather sofas from long-running Danish manufacturers, Mogens Hansen and Stouby, or Australian vintage versions from manufacturers like Fler and Tessa. We have selected some fabulous Danish leather sofas, which will be available at our upcoming pop-up shop.
The vintage leather sofas take on a beautiful patina of age which adds so much character and texture. This idea is of age adding character is beautifully articulated by the Japanese notion of wabi-sabi, the beauty of imperfection, age and time worn irregularity.
This is my personal favourite - wabi-sabi at its best. I’m sure it will be snapped up very quickly.
Sofas and daybeds, new and old, in materials such as leather, wool, teak, rosewood and beech - everyone has their own favourite characteristics they are looking for in the perfect sofa. We love them in all their guises (save cheap knockoffs!) and one of the reasons they are so popular is that they can look just brilliant in all styles of interiors.
This is one of the Stouby sofas that will be in store, comfy caramel goodness!
Stouby is considered one of the finest manufacturers of the classic Danish sofa, second only to Borge Mogensen. The high quality of the leathers, dyes, fills and construction is what sets them apart from other manufacturers. Stouby was established way back in 1902 and still operates today, producing sofas in the Danish tradition, albeit in some more contemporary styles.
Come in to Modern Times Pop-Up2, launching December 9th, and see which one you like the most!
24/10/2011
Modern Times News, Design, Furniture
Mid-Century and Sunshine
It seems that against my best intentions of being a constant and regular blogger, I actually fit more into the category of intermittent and slack blogger. I guess it's not too late to change my ways! In Melbourne the season is changing and we are getting a very welcome dose of sunny days. As we are plotting and planning our next pop-up for December, I find the sunshine so uplifting, an inspiring force! I am pretty damn excited about our upcoming shop and the details will be revealed soon (as soon as we work them out!) In the meantime, I thought I'd post some inspiring images of sunny mid-century style.
Photo by ooh_food If I could be here, I'd like to lay about on the grass shaded by the greenery, taking the occasional refreshing dip.
Photo by ooh_food This lounge not only has a gorgeous colour palette but the sun looks like it has moved right in. It all looks very perfect doesn't it!
Photo by RetroLand U.S.A Was it more fun in the sun during the 1950's? It looks like it! I guess no one bothered to worry about their skin back then either...
Photo by Wallula Junction Pool area - Palm Springs style.
Photo by JoeInSouthernCA It would feel like summer all year round with this awesome indoor pool that pops with colour.
Photo by allerleirau Summer is on its way, along with all the great things that come with summer - like days at the beach, balmy evening drinking sessions, Christmas partys and holidays. Modern Times will also pop up again in Summer, so its all a lot to look forward to!
19/10/2011
Design
It's a wrap!
A belated thankyou!
Thank you to everyone who visited us at Modern Times Pop-Up Shop and helped make it such a great success. People came from far and wide to pay us a visit and many people stumbled upon us whilst wandering down the St Kilda side street. What a buzz to meet all these strangers who liked what we were up to! We loved giving visitors a guided tour of our little shop and explaining our pop-up concept. Seeing folks experience the furniture we enjoy so much was really wonderful. Our friends really took it to a whole other level and the Modern Times lounges became the place of choice to meet and linger on the weekends (byo coffee!). Everyone was welcome! Whilst the furniture was always the focus, the art and homewares were received with equal enthusiasm. In fact, the popularity of Ellie Malin's balloon prints threatened to overshadow the whole operation!
A common question was - What next? What happens when you 'pop-down'? Well, we've thought long and hard about an answer to that question. Now, I can't confirm anything...but our crystal ball looks like it is predicting another pop-up shop later in the year with an all new shipment of vintage Danish furniture and more original art and homewares by a bigger and better selection of talented locals. The new year could even see Modern Times put down some roots in a more permanent location. Watch this space!
P.S. Want to be part of Modern Times Pop-Up #2? I'm totally up for suggestions and expressions of interest. We are looking for quality Australian homewares and original art that complements the modernist style. I am really excited about the prospect of promoting some fresh new artists!
30/06/2011
Modern Times News
Ellie Malin and her famous balloons...
Ellie's gorgeous balloon prints have created quite a splash. Even before they were pictured in a feature on Modern Times on The Design Files, everyone who came into the shop was drawn to these striking yet calming artworks. At 120 x 80cm they are the biggest linocuts I have come across!
Ellie hand mixes her own colours (she has a wonderful eye for colour!) and prints them herself on what must be a very large press. Ellie has actually created her own unique linocut technique which I won't give away but I can tell you she uses 100% cotton rag paper from Italy which feels heavy and luxurious with the best quality archival inks. These oil based inks means Ellie's work takes about a week to dry. The two we had hanging were snapped up pretty quickly but it didn't stop everyone asking about them.
The good news is we have just received three more prints hot off the press. You better be quick!
The new prints!
Me holding up a fresh print!
10/06/2011
Art, Modern Times News
Ellie Malin and her famous balloons...
Ellie's gorgeous balloon prints have created quite a splash. Even before they were pictured in a feature on Modern Times on The Design Files, everyone who came into the shop was drawn to these striking yet calming artworks. At 120 x 80cm they are the biggest linocuts I have come across!
Ellie hand mixes her own colours (she has a wonderful eye for colour!) and prints them herself on what must be a very large press. Ellie has actually created her own unique linocut technique which I won't give away but I can tell you she uses 100% cotton rag paper from Italy which feels heavy and luxurious with the best quality archival inks. These oil based inks means Ellie's work takes about a week to dry. The two we had hanging were snapped up pretty quickly but it didn't stop everyone asking about them.
The good news is we have just received three more prints hot off the press. You better be quick!
The new prints!
Me holding up a fresh print!
10/06/2011
Art, Modern Times News
Modern Times Opens its Doors
The day finally came for us to take down the newspaper off our windows (although we did almost forget!) and open our doors to the public. A good crowd enjoyed the generosity of MOJO wines and Cricketers Arms Lager whilst browsing the Modern Times wares and listening to the soulful tunes of Mamacita Bonnita.
Thank you everyone!!! Here are some pics of the eve.
Before the masses arrived
22/05/2011
Modern Times News
Opening night launch, preview and party
Hey, thanks for stopping by. We'd like to invite you to our opening night launch party.
Be amongst the first to see our collection of original vintage Danish furniture alonside homewares and art by talented local designers. And, if you need more incentive, there will be drinks and tunes too!
When is it? 6-8pm Friday 20th May
Where is it? Modern Times Pop-Up Shop, 12-14 Belford St, St Kilda
Anything else? It's kindly supported by MOJO wines by Rockbare and Cricketers Arms Lager.
11/05/2011
Modern Times News
Modern Times Pop-Up // Poster
Look out for our poster and postcards on the streets of Melbourne.
07/05/2011
Modern Times News, Design
Modern Times Pop-Up // Poster
Look out for our poster and postcards on the streets of Melbourne.
07/05/2011
Modern Times News, Design
In conversation with 'designed in brunswick'
Neil and Aisling from 'designed in brunswick' give us some insight into what has influenced and inspired their designs and how they come up with those fantastic names!
Pitka Blom lamp in banana by 'designed in brunswick'
Neil: We came to home-wares through our mixed design backgrounds, Aisling as a graphic designer and myself as a sculptor and food stylist. I also used to do a bit of merchandising and interior work back in the eighties. When Aisling turned her interests to fabric design it seemed only natural to combine forces and to focus on home-wares and to design things we would like to have around us. We have ended up with a bit of a retro-scando focus at the moment as well.
"I am constantly noodling about on a Scandinavian translators on the web to find names for our designs. It’s all pretty loose, any one design might end up with an amalgamation of Danish, Finnish and Icelandic words all kind of ‘mashed’ together."
Stormur (Blue Heaven) lamp by 'designed in brunswick'
Neil:The inspiration behind the ‘Stormur’ design comes from two distinct directions. Firstly I had a traditional Asian water motif in mind, a sea of waves, kind of semi circles on semi circles in repetition in deep blue on white. I wanted the clouds to come together in this sort of rhythm and colour. Secondly I wanted the styled rain and water droplets to have the same feeling as Harry Beck’s London Tube Map, quite formalised and highly graphic.
Aisling: The central inspiration for our fabric designs comes from a love of mid 20th Century Scandinavian design; it’s kind of the agreed starting point for most of our work. I also like to explore the scale of motifs in order to create quite bold work where possible. My commercial graphic background also comes into play here as well, to translate my design work onto cloth and ultimately into our living environment. We print all the fabric ourselves, which kind of gives me the best of both worlds, designing AND getting my hands dirty. Colour also plays an important role; I love using specific combinations of colour to create a slightly nostalgic feel, it supports the retro-scando theme and gives us lots of scope to point any particular design into any given direction.
The gorgeous designs from 'designed in brunswick' will be available at Modern Times Pop-Up Shop
05/05/2011
Interviews, Design
In conversation with 'designed in brunswick'
Neil and Aisling from 'designed in brunswick' give us some insight into what has influenced and inspired their designs and how they come up with those fantastic names!
Pitka Blom lamp in banana by 'designed in brunswick'
Neil: We came to home-wares through our mixed design backgrounds, Aisling as a graphic designer and myself as a sculptor and food stylist. I also used to do a bit of merchandising and interior work back in the eighties. When Aisling turned her interests to fabric design it seemed only natural to combine forces and to focus on home-wares and to design things we would like to have around us. We have ended up with a bit of a retro-scando focus at the moment as well.
"I am constantly noodling about on a Scandinavian translators on the web to find names for our designs. It’s all pretty loose, any one design might end up with an amalgamation of Danish, Finnish and Icelandic words all kind of ‘mashed’ together."
Stormur (Blue Heaven) lamp by 'designed in brunswick'
Neil:The inspiration behind the ‘Stormur’ design comes from two distinct directions. Firstly I had a traditional Asian water motif in mind, a sea of waves, kind of semi circles on semi circles in repetition in deep blue on white. I wanted the clouds to come together in this sort of rhythm and colour. Secondly I wanted the styled rain and water droplets to have the same feeling as Harry Beck’s London Tube Map, quite formalised and highly graphic.
Aisling: The central inspiration for our fabric designs comes from a love of mid 20th Century Scandinavian design; it’s kind of the agreed starting point for most of our work. I also like to explore the scale of motifs in order to create quite bold work where possible. My commercial graphic background also comes into play here as well, to translate my design work onto cloth and ultimately into our living environment. We print all the fabric ourselves, which kind of gives me the best of both worlds, designing AND getting my hands dirty. Colour also plays an important role; I love using specific combinations of colour to create a slightly nostalgic feel, it supports the retro-scando theme and gives us lots of scope to point any particular design into any given direction.
The gorgeous designs from 'designed in brunswick' will be available at Modern Times Pop-Up Shop
05/05/2011
Interviews, Design
Robin Boyd Open Houses - A Melbourne Modernist.
The Robin Boyd Foundation will host an open day - Designs for Warrandyte – on 15th May, 2011. Six houses, designed for various arty types, including Boyd’s childhood home, will be open to visit. I think this will be a great opportunity to gain an insight into Boyd’s work, a visionary and leader in Melbourne’s Modern Architecture movement!
Photo by SkinnyDrummer
Take a look, inside the house and studios of sculptor and printmaker, Inge and Grahame King, designed by Robin Boyd in 1951.
Robin Boyd (1919- 1971) was one of the foremost proponents of the modernist movement in Australia. Boyd designed mostly residential projects and believed in the fundamentals of modernism; rejecting unnecessary decoration, believing in the importance of good design and utilizing inexpensive, functional and partially prefabricated materials. Boyd designed over 200 houses and was equally prolific as a writer, commentator, educator and public speaker. Boyd’s architecture responded to the local surroundings whilst combining the ideas of the modern movement - this style became known as the post-war Melbourne regional style. The Robin Boyd Foundation was established in 2005 and is operated from Walsh Street (Boyd’s family home since 1958). Lectures, open houses, seminars and events run by the foundation continue the work and spirit of Robin Boyd - increasing community awareness, understanding and participation in design.
Robin Boyd Foundation - Designs for Warrandyte - Open Day Information and Booking form
26/04/2011
Design
What Is So Good About Modernism?
Modernism has laid the way for the minimalist clean lines and open plan living that is still the dominant style of new buildings and interiors today. Why have the ideas of modernism had such an enduring influence?
In the early 20th century there were sweeping changes in technology and society. With continuing industrialisation and the rise of a more liberal society - artists, designers and thinkers led the break away from the traditional ways of perceiving and participating in the world.
This radical chair by Gerrit Rietveld, the Red Blue Chair, 1917, discards all ornament, stripped back to the barest and most utilitarian form. It doesn't look too comfortable does it, but it was a pivotal design in the move towards more minimal, functional design. —Photo by William Cromar
The ornate decoration of the previous eras were seen as excessive and a waste of effort and material. Modernism was all about exploring new materials, simplifying forms and utilising production techniques whilst maintaining a high level of craftsmanship. Probably the most important ideal that made modernism so enduring is the idea that ‘form follows function’. The belief that true beauty would be determined by the rational use of materials, quality craftsmanship and keeping functionalism as a priority. The essential function and structure of a design dictated the shape, leading to the clean minimalistic style we still find so appealing. Industrial production also allowed a more ‘democratic’ access to well designed everyday objects. The Scandinavian designers reconciled the somewhat coldness of Bauhaus modernism with a more human, natural aesthetic. Due to the climate in this region and the emphasis on indoor life, they understood the importance of a warm and inviting interior and ensuring practicality and comfort within the home.
Not just for the designers but for most Scandinavian people, good design is considered an essential part of everyday life.
Hans Wegner took the same principle of stripping back a design to a pure form but created a warmer, more inviting design by using organic shapes and beautiful natural materials. Photo by - ninahale
Drawer and cupboard handles are designed to smoothly and seamlessly integrate rather than stand out ostentatiously. Sideboard and sofas are lifted off the ground on slimline legs to create an uninterrupted floor space. Natural materials are able to speak for themselves. Attention to detail in design and craftsmanship have made the designs not only stand the test of time aesthetically but also made them durable, allowing us to enjoy the same 50 year old pieces today. Whether it is the original pieces from the 50’s and 60’s that still look great in today’s interiors or the minimalistic architect designed interiors of today. Modernist design prevails today because it is beautiful and it makes sense.
21/04/2011
Design
Mid-Century Style For All
There are many ways to incorporate a bit of mid-century style into your home. Whether you like your space all out retro or slick and contemporary. Check out these images for some inspiration.
Photo by ooh_food. A mid-century style home with a bright and breezy pared-back interior.
Photo by ooh-food. Contemporary. Minimal colour palette.
Photo by small ritual. Straight out of Mad Men?
Photo by JForth. Apartment style. Perhaps building the collection for a move to a bigger space.
01/04/2011
Interiors
Let me introduce myself....
Hello everyone. I am excited to be writing the first Modern Times blog post. I guess I should introduce myself! My name is Amy and I'm one half of Modern Times. I am really looking forward to opening the first mid-century furniture pop-up shop in Melbourne. We have hand-selected stunning designer pieces and imported them from directly from Denmark, there is an emphasis on pieces from the most well known designers such as Arne Vodder and H J Wegner although there is many pieces from lesser known designers and manufacturers. Browse the website to see many of the pieces although there will be many more in store.
I intend to use this blog to post news and developments about Modern Times and also to look at mid-century design and it's relevance in Melbourne and more broadly, Australia.
The Modern Times Pop-Up Shop will also be showcasing the work of local designers who are influenced by the mid-century Scandinavian or retro style. I love the idea of bringing together the old/vintage/original pieces from abroad with the new/fresh/inspired designs currently being created locally.
'The Chair According To Hans J. Wegner' limited edition poster
No room for another chair in your collection? Have them all anyway with this limited edition poster produced for the exhibition 'The Chair According To Hans J. Wegner' at the Stockholm International Fair, 1000 printed, 1 available at Modern Times
15/03/2011
Modern Times News