Displaying posts labeled "Support"

Over the years Desire to Inspire has proudly partnered with the A’ Design Award & Competition, the world’s largest annual juried design competition with over 100 categories (you can learn more about some of the super categories: Good Industrial Design Award, Good Architecture Design Award, Good Product Design Award, Good Communication Design Award, Good Service Design Award, Good Fashion Design Award). It honors the best designers, architects, and design-oriented companies worldwide to provide them publicity, fame and recognition. it is such an exciting competition, and an incredibly prestigious award!  A’ Design Award & Competition is an indicator of quality and perfection in design, recognized worldwide, with your design front and centre before design companies and professionals. Entries are judged by an international jury panel of scholars, professionals and media members and the benefits to the winners are inspiring. The trophy, of course, an invitation to the gala night, a certificate of quality, inclusion in the prestigious A’ Design Award & Competition exhibition and the yearly ResultBook but even more importantly press, PR, introduction to industry professionals and companies and international exposure. There is still time to get entries in for this year’s awards. Register today!

Let’s get started and have a peek at some of the talented winners of last year’s Furniture Design category (one of MANY categories that are included in the competition).

Golf Folding Chair by Miguel Arruda

Well’s Lounge Chair by Emre Oner

Tiramisu Pouf by Ruya Akyol

Arkhe Furniture Collection by Fulden Topaloglu

Stagione Transformative Chair by Nikolaos Karintzaidis

Hone Shelf by Pablo Vidiella

Cenear Bench by Christine Xiang

Alskar Lounge Chair by Danwei Zhao

Infinity Console by Cesare Arosio

Luar Armchair by Lattoog

Hanoi Detachable Sofa by Yuqi Wang

Accent Item Lighting Furniture by Yu Ren

Ariu Armchair by Research and Development Design Italia Srl

Oco Armchair by Mauricio Coelho

Tau Murano Small Table by Tulczinsky

Do you think you have what it takes to take on the best of the best design from around the world? You can register for the 2023-2024 A’ Design Award and Competition here but time is short so get your entries in now. And to see more award winning designs you can check them all out here.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This post is brought to you in collaboration with A’ Design Award & Competition.

This book is a celebration of Smith’s design aesthetic, a flawless blend of European classicism and American modernism. The projects range from a contemporary beach house in East Hampton to a Moroccan-influenced Mallorca escape, as well as two of Michael’s own homes, including his extraordinary apartment in a nineteenth-century palace in Madrid. Smith shares his inspirations and design process, and explores what makes a room truly comfortable: Can people relax on the seating? Is the furniture arranged to encourage conversation? Is there enough light, and is it flattering?
Classic by Design by Michael S. Smith, published by Rizzoli, is a book full of delicious spaces that will inspire you. His designs are so unique and really picture perfect, which makes wonderful content for a coffee table book! A must-add to your collection.

Next up is Nicole Hollis: Artistry of Home with photographs by Douglas Friedman and also published by Rizzoli. I’ve been a fan of Nicole Hollis’ work for years so this one is also a must-have in my ‘book’ ;). Speaking of creativity, hers is off the charts and seeing some of these spaces in print (that I have featured here on the blog in the past) makes them even more magical. Put this one on your Christmas list for sure!
Celebrated for her “delightfully elegant, understated interiors” (House Beautiful), and her fusing of artisanal elements into a contemporary approach to spaces, Nicole Hollis’s second book presents an inspirational look at the role of art and craft in interior design. Focusing on the profound effect that art, craft, and color can play in any interior, this book presents Hollis’s masterful new residential projects, in which the curation of art, objects, and custom furnishings are key to the character of the spaces. Spanning homes in New York, California, and Hawaii, each interior reveals a new lesson in the creative and playful juxtaposition of artistic elements.

And lastly I received Holly Hunt: Fearless in the World of Design. The cover is gorgeous, and if you are a fan of her high-end furniture and interior designs pick this one up. If you aren’t already a fan maybe skip this one. It’s a bit bland otherwise.
An influential figure on the design scene since the 1980s, Hunt is recognized for being the first to design gallerylike showrooms with a mix of high-end furnishings and art. Hunt’s signature design line, with its focus on craftsmanship, exacting proportions, and impeccable materials, is credited with elevating standards across the design world. This momentous volume showcases Hunt’s nearly forty years of collections of furniture, lighting, and textiles, as well as her partnerships with the designers she championed, such as the French minimalist Christian Liaigre, whom she introduced to an American audience. Also included are Hunt’s homes—from her Chicago apartment overlooking Lake Michigan to her never-before-published modernist masterpiece in Aspen—as well as her acclaimed renovation of The Little Nell boutique hotel in Aspen.

Can you believe it’s that time of year again? Time for the best and brightest designers from around the world to enter the A’ Design Award and Competition and that means you. Register your design here. The deadline for entries is fast approaching and now is the time to submit your best work. With 114 categories the A’ Design Award and Competition is the world’s largest design competition. But it is not just an award. It is an indicator of quality and perfection in design, recognized worldwide, bringing your design front and centre before design companies and professionals.

From the Furniture, Homeware and Decor Items Design Award to the Architecture, Building and Structure Design Award, the Lighting Products and Projects Design Award to the Interior Space and Exhibition Design Award, the Bakeware, Tableware, Drinkware and Cookware Design Award to the Landscape Architecture, Planning and Garden Design Award and so many more. (You can find all the design categories here.) With the competition highlighting, advertising & advocating good design, taking part will provide recognition, publicity and international peer review. Entries will be judged by an international jury panel of scholars, professionals and media members and the benefits to the winners are inspiring. The trophy, of course, the Design Award Winner Logo, an invitation to the gala night, a certificate of quality, inclusion in the prestigious A’ Design Award and Competition exhibition and the yearly Result Book but even more importantly press and PR, introduction to industry professionals and companies and international exposure. The fame, the prestige, the recognition and so much more.

Are you inspired? Excited? Believe you’ve got what it takes to take on the best of the best design from around the world? You can register for the A’ Design Award and Competition 2024 –2025 now. But you better be quick. The deadline for regular submissions is September 30. Results will be announced to the public on May 1 and you will find full coverage of the results here on Desire to Inspire. Can’t wait to share the winners with you! Maybe we’ll be sharing your work.

In the meantime here are some inspiring winners from last year …

Spirito Table Lamp by Alexey Danilin

Meland Club Indoor Playground by Li Xiang

Znong Shu Ge Book Store by Masato Kure

Changi Terminal 2 New Airport Langage by Basile Boiffils

Skyline Bay Community Center by ZHOYU

Lotus Guest Chair by Ming-Li Chang

DC 3 Stool by Sergio Fahrer

Grampo Lamp by Bruno De Lazzari

La Espresso Espresso Maker for Travel by YUN-YUN HUNG

Formation 01 Bathroom Faucet by Kohler Internal Design Team

Omni Multifunctional Chair by Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu

Black House by Oliver Schütte

Clickat Diy Cat Furniture by Ziel Home Furnishing Technology Co., Ltd

Alskar Lounge Chair by Cassily Danwei Zhao

Tau Murano Small Table by Reflex Spa

Believe you’ve got what it takes to take on the best of the best design from around the world? You can register for the 2024 – 2025 A’ Design Award and Competition here but time is short so get your entries in now.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

This post is in collaboration with A’ Design Award & Competition.

Finding the perfect lightweight vacuum cleaner that fits your needs and budget can be a daunting task. With countless options available, ranging from basic models to high-tech machines, it’s essential to understand what features are most important for your specific situation. This guide will help you navigate the world of vacuum cleaners and make an informed decision without breaking the bank.

Assess Your Cleaning Needs

Before diving into the world of vacuum cleaners, take a moment to evaluate your home and cleaning requirements:

• Floor Types: Consider the surfaces you’ll be cleaning most frequently. Do you have mostly hardwood, tile, carpet, or a mix?
• Home Size: The size of your living space can influence the type of vacuum you need.
• Pets: If you have furry friends, look for vacuums designed to handle pet hair effectively.
• Allergies: For those with allergies, HEPA filtration systems are crucial.
• Storage Space: Consider where you’ll store the vacuum when not in use.
  
  

Types of Vacuums

Understanding the different types of vacuums can help you narrow down your options:

Upright Vacuums

• Ideal for large carpeted areas
• Often more powerful and have wider cleaning paths
• Can be heavier and more challenging to maneuver

Canister Vacuums

• Versatile for various floor types
• Easier to use on stairs and under furniture
• Typically quieter than uprights

Stick Vacuums

• Lightweight and easy to store
• Good for quick cleanups and small spaces
• Often cordless, but may have shorter battery life

Handheld Vacuums

• Perfect for spot cleaning and small messes
• Portable and easy to use
• Limited capacity and power

Robot Vacuums

• Hands-free cleaning
• Great for maintaining cleanliness between deep cleans
• Can be expensive and may struggle with deep carpet cleaning

Key Features to Consider

When comparing vacuums within your budget, pay attention to these important features:

Suction Power: This is crucial for effective cleaning. Look for models with adjustable suction settings for different surfaces.

Filtration System: HEPA filters are best for trapping allergens and fine particles. If allergies are a concern, this feature is worth the investment.

Bag vs. Bagless: Bagless models save on recurring costs but may require more frequent emptying. Bagged vacuums are better for allergy sufferers but incur ongoing bag replacement costs.

Cord vs. Cordless: Corded vacuums offer consistent power but limit mobility while a cordless vacuum provides freedom of movement but havs limited battery life.

Attachments: Various attachments can greatly enhance a vacuum’s versatility. Look for models that include tools for different cleaning tasks.

Noise Level: If noise is a concern, some vacuums are designed to operate more quietly than others.

Balancing Cost and Quality

While it’s tempting to opt for the cheapest option, investing in a quality vacuum can save money in the long run. Consider these points:

• Durability: A well-built vacuum may cost more upfront but will last longer, saving money over time.
• Warranty: Look for models with good warranty coverage, which can indicate the manufacturer’s confidence in their product.
• Energy Efficiency: Some vacuums are more energy-efficient, potentially lowering electricity costs.
• Maintenance Costs: Factor in the cost of replacement filters, bags, or batteries when considering the total cost of ownership.

Research and Compare

Once you’ve identified your needs and budget, it’s time to research:

• Read expert reviews from reputable sources
• Check user reviews for real-world experiences
• Compare specifications and features of models within your price range
• Look for sales or discounts to get the best value

Test Before You Buy

If possible, try out the vacuum before purchasing. Many stores have floor models available for testing. Pay attention to:

• How well it performs on different surfaces
• Weight and maneuverability
• Noise level
• Ease of emptying and maintaining

Making the Final Decision

Remember, the best vacuum for your budget is one that meets your specific needs without unnecessary frills. Don’t be swayed by fancy features you won’t use. Instead, focus on the core functionalities that will make your cleaning routine easier and more effective.

By carefully considering your needs, researching options, and balancing cost with quality, you can find a vacuum that will keep your home clean without emptying your wallet. With the right choice, you’ll have a reliable cleaning companion that makes maintaining your living space a breeze.

This scintillating volume takes readers on an exclusive journey through Paris, guided by Mathilde Favier—the charismatic public relations director at Dior Couture. Hailing from one of Paris’ most creative families, Mathilde Favier is renowned as a warm, welcoming hostess nurturing a network of friends who happen to be some of the city’s most esteemed figures in fashion, beauty, art, interior design, and gastronomy. Accompanied by a lively text and interviews by Frédérique Dedet, Favier—who personifies the soul and spirit of Paris—guides readers around the private spaces, shops, studios, residences, and kitchens of these extraordinary personalities. Their personal stories, expert perspectives, and shared secrets, together with Favier’s intimate understanding of the city and its best addresses, present a rarely seen view of Paris’ vibrant core.
I found Living Beautifully in Paris by Mathilde Favier with text by Frédérique Dedet and photographs by Pascal Chevallier (published by Rizzoli) to be quite…pretentious. It seemed to be simply about “look how famous I am and all my famous friends”. If you dream of life in Paris with and endless bank account then this book is for you. Or if you like pretty book covers.

Next is Great Inspiration: My Adventures in Decorating with Notable Interior Designers by Katherine Bryan publsihed by Rizzoli. The decorating evolution of Bryan—one of the great patrons of interior design—has gone from classic modernism to sumptuous traditionalism to romantic eclecticism and everything in between, with the collaboration of such renowned interior designers as Tom Britt, Mica Ertegun, Susan Gutfreund, Mark Hampton, and Studio Peregalli Sartori. Each residence and each room make up an aesthetic memoir that explores those collaborations, reveals insights into the various processes, and inspires others to look at their own spaces and consider a myriad of beautiful and appropriate options. Anecdotes divulge her astute guidance and the charming idiosyncrasies of some of the twentieth century’s greatest decorators.
Katherine has lived in several spectacular homes, and it was really interesting to see her style (with the help of designers) evolve over the years and depending on the architecture/style of each home. This was a fun one.

Then we have The Perfect Room: Timeless Designs for Intentional Living by Marie Flanigan and published by Rizzoli. Flanigan looks at the home on a room-by-room basis, identifying common design challenges, offering solutions on how to create rooms that are aesthetically pleasing and efficient. With examples chosen from her work, she shares seasoned wisdom and creative approaches to every decision ranging from building materials and architectural details to furnishings, color, textiles, accessories, and organization. While her first book The Beauty of Home spelled out her philosophy of design, this new tome provides illustrated examples of design ideas and applications for each room in the house, inspiring readers to create spaces that exceed expectations.
A great coffee table book filled with some really beautiful and thoughtful interiors. I wasn’t overly excited about it but a good read nonetheless.

Lastly we have Cullman & Kravis: Interiors by Ellie Cullman and Lee Cavanaugh and Sarah Ramsey and Alyssa Urban with photography from Eric Piasecki, another published by Rizzoli. Ceaseless in its pursuit to create “an alchemy of old and new,” the highly esteemed firm of Cullman & Kravis is renowned for its ability to fashion modern, cohesive, richly layered homes rooted in tradition and the respect for function and decoration. Utilizing their decades of experience, they build out rooms from the finest classical foundations, then infuse bold, stylish, and modish elements, mixing exquisite antiques with contemporary art to create truly dynamic spaces conceived to stand the test of time. The homes in this book (the majority exclusive to the volume) include sumptuous Manhattan apartments, a historic house overlooking the Long Island Sound, a contemporary beach house in the Hamptons, and a modern minimalist Palm Beach waterfront estate. 
This is more of a coffee table book than a source of inspiration for those who don’t have multi-million dollar homes. Some really fabulous homes featured and a good book if you have dreams of the mostly unattainable.