Modern Design Blog

We Have A Winner – Handcrafted Modern Clock Giveaway

Wow! I'm completely blown away by the number of comments on our most recent giveaway with Atlas Signs and Plaques. I guess that just goes to show you the appeal of a quality line of products.

Circle Circle ClockI guess that just goes to show you the appeal of a quality line of products. The lucky winner of this fantastic clock from Atlas Signs and Plaques is the author of comment #55 - robin_titan from Texas. Congratulations!


Winning Comment

The good news doesn't end there...as a special "Thank You" for participating in the Modern Design Blog / Atlas Signs and Plaques, Circle Circle Clock Giveaway, the good people at Atlas Signs and Plaques are giving the readers of the Modern Design Blog a 10% discount off of products from their website. How cool is that!? Given all of the nice things you had to say about Atlas, this is a real treat.

To claim your discount, simply follow this link to the Atlas Signs and Plaques Website, or enter the code "DesignBlog" at checkout. Discount applies to orders received by October 1, 2009. Feel free to twitter and tell your friends. What a great way to get a head start on your holiday shopping.

Oh! If you're not a "follower" of the Modern Design Blog already, what are you waiting for?

Handsaw PlaqueAloha Address Plaque

Garden PlaqueKeep Calm and Carry On Plaque

Swirl not so Square

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Editor - September 9, 2009 at 8:44 pm

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Phone A Friend

All of the cell phones I've owned have experienced some form of abuse whether it has been dropped in water, on a brick road, or stolen from my purse during a New Year's Eve celebration. My replacement phones always end up being a dorky, Zach Morris (Saved By The Bell) type phone that never leaves me with a good feeling.

If you're anything like me and have a hard time staying on the go without losing or ruining everyday essentials, it's time to invest in a phone that lives in a more permanent and safer location: your home. The VTech LS6245 phone system offers a supportive base and handheld phone complete with a touch-sensitive surface for easy dialing and checking new messages.

One of the most interesting facts I learned about this item is that the VTech phone is the first to offer both landline and mobile telephone service. After a quick and easy Bluetooth setup with your cell phone (and up to seven other cell phones), you'll be able to make calls in no time. While cell service can come and go throughout different parts in your home, calls from VTech will come out clear every time. I wasn't able to make landline calls because I didn't have a DSL filter which is an item you'll need to buy on your own if you have high-speed cable service in your home.

Whether you're looking to add a new modern flair or have been seeking the latest in technology, a VTech LS6245 phone will certainly fill your craving! It's a beautiful addition to the home or personal office that your family and friends will enjoy using on a regular basis.

VTech Phone

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - August 27, 2009 at 7:14 pm

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Handcrafted Modern Clock Giveaway

While the summer may be winding down, it's not too late to spruce up your backyard, patio and garden area. By adding some decorative garden accents you can transform your outdoor space into the perfect late summer/early fall outdoor hangout. This is where a company like Atlas Signs & Plaques comes in handy. Based in Lake Mills, Wisconsin, Atlas Signs & Plaques is a development from Metal Facades, a finishing and custom metal coatings company. With a heavy focus on quality craftsmanship, the attention to detail that goes into every piece is clearly visible. Atlas Signs & Plaques offers everything from address plaques and military and service plaques to historical markers and clocks - all made in the U.S.A. Every sign and plaque offered on site is suitable for exterior use, with the exception of the clocks.

Bird on a Branch Address PlaqueTurtle Phrase PlaqueNo Entry Keep Out Sign
The good people at Atlas Signs & Plaques have generously donated a beautiful indoor-use metal clock for a giveaway here on the Modern Design Blog. Here's a bit more information on this gorgeous clock:

Circle Circle Clock from Atlas Signs and PlaquesCircle Circle Clock or as we like to call it the "Triple C". Hand Crafted Iron Rust Finish. 10 inch diameter. $97.00

Tick Tock, Tic Toc. Tick Toc Clock


Spell it as you like. But Atlas Signs and Plaques has real metal coated, totally custom clocks that are way ahead of the times. Here is the formula for this one. Combine one of our most popular motifs, the circle, with one of our newest items, clocks, and turn it into an art piece. Modern materials coated with our Iron Rust Finish adds interest to any room in the house. Call it rustic, call it modern, call it artsy, call it grunge. But just call it yours if you are the winner.

All of our signs and plaques are suitable for exteriors...but NOT with the clock. As the clock is not weather proof...but the clock and parts are made in the USA. Ships in two weeks.

Complete with double A battery and a hanger installed for easy mounting. This is a artisan made, handcrafted item and the finish will vary from piece to piece.

To Enter This Giveaway:
  1. Go visit the Atlas Signs & Plaques website and design blog
  2. Leave a comment on this blog with your name and a valid email address

Giveaway Rules:
  1. Giveaway Ends Monday September 7, 2009.
  2. One winner will be chosen at random, using www.random.org on Tuesday morning, September 8th, 2009.
  3. One Entry Per Person
  4. U.S. Residents Only
I hope you're all as excited about this giveaway as I am! Good luck and happy shopping!

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Editor - August 24, 2009 at 2:36 pm

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Coldwater Creek Promotion

Recently I have been picked to be a "Glambassador", a representative for Glamour magazine who helps spread the word on promotions and events. I wanted to share a promotion that is going on from August 15 - September 15.

Whether you shop at a physical Coldwater Creek location or online at http://www.coldwatercreek.com/, just mention the code GLM2368 and receive $25 off your next $100 or more purchase. You can also place your order using this promotional code over the phone by calling 1-800-262-0040. I just checked out their new fall catelog and they have a handful of stylish clothing, jewelry, and accessories perfect for the upcoming season. Happy shopping!

Coldwater Creek
Women's Fall Wardrobe

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - August 19, 2009 at 12:31 pm

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What Does Boston Mean To You?

Last night I attended a fabulous Christofle event celebrating the opening of their store on Boylston Street. Positioned across from Boston Common and in between the eye-catching turquoise canopies that provide entry for some of the most luxurious boutiques Boston has to offer, Christofle is certainly one store you don't want to miss. Upon entering, I was met with a stunning collection of sterling silver jewelry, flatware, serving platters, and an assortment of decadent home accessories that would add Parisian elegance to any space. The event was complete with a number of charismatic guests and a brilliantly designed champagne cooler at the center of it all.

One of the guests I spoke with plans to launch a magazine that hones in on Boston's high-end fashion for women to remind out-of-towners that the city is known for more than our sports teams and historic streets. Between the loyal Red Sox fans and our distinguished Freedom Trail tours, high-end fashion appears to be an afterthought which is why I'm dedicating this post to highlighting some of the luxurious places I've come across while living here. Maintaining it's historic charm, Boston has managed to produce a number of wonderful boutiques along the sidewalks of Beacon Hill, Newbury Street, and the North End, among others, for all visitors to enjoy!

6-Light Candelabra
Christofle Mondo
Léo Léa Baby Cup
Desk Clock
Coffee Pot

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - June 12, 2009 at 9:55 pm

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Modern Electronics You Can’t Live Without

When it comes down to it, Apple certainly takes the cake in terms of dishing out the latest in fashionable, high-tech, and user-friendly electronics which is what makes their products so irresistible. While I can’t say that I’ve already made the switch over to a Mac, I can certainly vouch for its incredible features and inspirational design after testing them out in the past. If the Mac's ability to help unleash your creative ideas isn’t enough reason for you to protect this hot commodity, then perhaps the price tag will motivate you to invest in a protective case for you to use in your travels. Now’s your chance as men’s fashion blog, kiD GQ is holding a giveaway for a brown leather laptop case that is perfect for a MacBook Pro or PowerBook model.

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - May 14, 2009 at 6:07 pm

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PUMA City Established in Boston

Seeing as how Boston is in the middle of a couple of very exciting playoff games, I thought it would be best to bring up a sports related modern design idea that has graced our historic streets over the past couple of weeks. PUMA is taking a similar branding approach to Chanel’s Contemporary Art Container by bringing buzzworthy architecture to a number of locations across the world. While setting up this campaign, the new PUMA Sailing Collection is being promoted alongside the Volvo Ocean Race that started in September of last year. Until May 16th, Boston will be hosting Puma’s 11,000 square-foot structure which is constructed of twenty-four steel shipping containers and includes a retail store, bar, and hardwood dance floor, making this the hottest event venue of the year!

PUMA City
PUMA
PUMA Store

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - May 7, 2009 at 7:03 pm

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Spring Cleaning Around the Home

There’s something about the warm air during the April months that puts me in the mood to clean or change my apartment around. A new look for our home always feels like it’s in order after months of winter hibernation which is why an email I received about home renovations really struck me. Living on 112, The Martha Stewart Living Radio Blog introduced me to a series of blog and radio segments dedicated to how a friend of MSL Radio, Brent Ridge, incorporated the Eight Step Home Cure by Apartment Therapy’s Maxwell Gillingham-Ryan in the renovation of his home. Take a look at the Flickr slideshow here.

While keeping this fabulous and creative renovation in mind, MSL Radio has decided to feature four radio segments on Monday mornings in April at 10am EST on the Whole Living channel (Sirius 112 and XM 157). While Brent Ridge’s home improvement appears to be a drastic change in design and style, don’t feel pressured to think that you have to tear down your existing space to get the look you want. Whole Living’s radio segments will feature ways to optimize the appearance of your furniture and décor while keeping the welcoming charm your home is known for. Keeping a balance of style and comfort is one goal we should all be after during this spring season’s home restoration.

Renovated Living Room
Modern Bathroom
Updated Kitchen
Master Bedroom

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - April 15, 2009 at 6:11 pm

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Kartell Optic Storage Solutions

If there’s one item my apartment could use more of it would be storage. With the amount of miscellaneous stuff I have laying around here and there, it would be nice to be able to put it all in the proper place and have it miraculously stay there to keep my space organized. Since one of my New Year’s resolutions was to be more organized, I felt it was the perfect time to evaluate my progress after 2009’s first quarter.

Luckily, I ran across Kartell’s Optic storage container that is mesmerizing and quite unique! Who knew that storage could be so exciting? Well, that’s Kartell for you – taking ordinary everyday items and making them into works of art that not only function well but also make our homes stylish and fun. Optic resembles a decorative gem with its PMMA glossy construction and is sure to enhance any room in your home.

Kartell Optic Storage Unit
Modern Storage Unit

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - March 31, 2009 at 4:59 pm

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Herman Miller® Embody Chair: The Object of Desire

Working behind a desk eight hours each day in an enclosed space certainly is no vacation. However, there are many things we can add to revamp our space to create an exciting environment, one that motivates us through the sleep deprived mornings and post-lunch afternoons. I can definitely be put into the dull workspace category. Right now I’m working with a thirsty bamboo plant and a plug-in “aquarium” that includes a print of tropical fish with a coral reef backdrop.

Now that I’ve shared my poor excuse for a workspace, let’s get to the good stuff. The office chair you sit on can really make or break your day in terms of mood and work performance. Herman Miller’s incredible addition to their office chair collection will inspire you to get started on the task at hand. The Embody office chair is definitely an inspirational piece and we couldn’t ask for anything more in a tight fitting office space!

Herman Miller® Embody Office Chair
Modern Office Chair
Herman Miller®

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - March 20, 2009 at 4:30 pm

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IceDea: Idea in Ice Cream

This past winter I’ve given my immune system a lot of credit. For months I was surrounded by coworkers with stomach bugs, the flu, and bronchitis (oh my!) but I was able to come out of it unscathed. Unfortunately, the healthy streak has ended and I found out that I have strep throat for the first time in my life today and am now on antibiotics for the next ten days. At this point it’s extremely difficult and painful to swallow any type of food except for…ice cream of course! It’s a good thing I already went on my tropical vacation because after this 10 day ice cream binge I can’t see myself sporting anything less than a sweat suit. I'm currently accepting ice cream product reviews ;o)

In the spirit of my new diet, I thought it would be appropriate to showcase a few unique designs by ice cream designer Prima Chakrabandhu Na Ayudhya. Before she started IceDea, Prima worked in product and stationary design for two different companies after receiving her Bachelor's degree in Industrial Design. As stated on her site, Prima has also created a variety of delicious ice cream flavors that are made special for store openings and other events including cornflakes and milk, Earl Grey, and Bellini flavored ice creams.

"I was assigned to create a summer ice cream collection for this ice cream issue. I was inspired by tan skin, sun bath, bikini, sea, swimming pool, inflatable boat and so on."


"The concept of this event was party, so we made a Cocktail and Cigarette ice cream. The Marlboro ice cream was served in an ashtray garnished with poppy seed on the top. Not only did the appearance of the ice cream look similar to the real thing, but it also tasted like it. For example, the Cigarette ice cream is coffee based, which when swallowed, tastes like smoke in the throat."
"The main products of Jerlot Coffee Space are coffee, drinks, breakfast and snacks. We made ice cream according to the products that they sell but in a different way. All of them looked really similar to the food and drinks on the menu, but are actually all ice cream."


Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - March 12, 2009 at 9:11 pm

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Modern Accommodations in Puerto Rico

Since my best girlfriends and I are used to what the New England winters are like in February, we decided to take matters into our own hands and book a trip to San Juan, Puerto Rico. From the morning we arrived to the afternoon we left we were pleasantly met with 87 degree sunny weather and a slight breeze that kept us refreshed throughout our stay. After catching a handful of sunrays during the day, we split our time between Old San Juan and the local hotels and casinos to get a taste of everything. As much as I loved the narrow cobblestone streets of the old city that were reminiscent of my stay in Spain years ago, I couldn’t help but stare wide-eyed at the modern spread of the Condado Plaza and El San Juan hotels and casinos. I couldn’t have thought of a better vacation – perfect weather and modern design to admire!

Silver Bar
Noodle Bar
El San Juan Sun Deck
El San Juan Lobby
Condado Plaza Restaurant
Condado Plaza Lobby
Aquaire Bar

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - March 3, 2009 at 4:17 pm

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What Can A Refrigerator Say About You?

I have a group of friends that love to send out a few surveys every now and then that either promises to tell your future or gives you a complete synopsis on your personality in about five minutes. Normally I’m not one to partake in those types of emails but a certain personality test that was sent to my blog email really caught my eye in a number of ways.

Amana, a leading home appliance manufacturer has teamed up with Style network’s Dress My Nest host Thom Filicia to create ten new refrigerator designs in a variety of different colors and styles. In an effort to gain some feedback on which unique design should be created first from the ten potential models, Amana has designed a fun test to determine everyone’s favorite. In exchange for your vote, they will let you know what your choice in fridge style says about you!

Mojo Refrigerator
Orbit Fridge
Green Tea Refrigerator
Amana Pink Lemonade Fridge
Mojave Kitchen Fridge

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - February 24, 2009 at 9:43 pm

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Born Modern Baby Giveaway

Hello modern gurus! Just thought I'd pass along some news of the giveaway I'm holding on Born Modern Baby. I was going to welcome all of the modern moms and dads at the beginning of this post but thought that these adorable and chic nursery cushions really can be sent by anyone as a gift. Think of all of those springtime baby showers that are just around the corner or the friend from home that's expecting in the coming months. These uniquely designed baby cushions are a darling addition to any nursery or playroom. Check out Born Modern Baby for more giveaway details!

Modern Nursery Pillow

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - February 17, 2009 at 3:57 pm

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Spice Things Up in the Kitchen

We all know how easy it is to fall into a routine and whether that consistency in life is good or bad is entirely up to you. I know that having a certain degree of predictability in one’s life is comforting but there are areas in life where we feel the need to spice things up a bit. Based on your responses in the poll, we found that the kitchen is the next room that we're least proud of in our homes and it’s time to take a stance and change all that with modern kitchen accessories. One way to bring back the excitement in life is through our culinary adventures and whether we’re a top chef or like to think that we can cook a thing or two, it's important that we stay inspired by the unique designs that our kitchen has to offer. Let’s face it – our cooking may not always come out the way we want it but at least our kitchen’s style can be spot on.

Aperture Spice Rack
1-Line Spice and Olive Oil Holder
Magnetic Spice Bar
Define Spice Rack
Test Tube Spice Rack

Be the first to comment - What do you think?  Posted by Suzanne - February 12, 2009 at 3:29 pm

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