Rough Trade

Superslick finishes have lost their sheen. What’s intriguing now is design that’s a little rough around the edges.

A muted color scheme lets the vaguely pixelated pattern of Patricia Urquiola’s large-form ceramic slabs shine—–figuratively. The bas-relief appears to be pliable, but in reality the rock-hard surface is built tough enough for high-traffic floors or accent walls.

Prototype Lamp

More Info: mattstudio.com

Matt Gagnon spent five days as window dressing during Design Week. The designer stood in the front display at the Future Perfect shop in NoHo, treating passersby to a live demonstration as he created his signature Prototype lamps out of materials such as wool yarn, cotton rope, and surgical tubing.

Trash Me Lamp

Made by: &tradition
More Info: andtradition.com

This rough-hewn lamp may look like a brutalist’s best friend, but it’s really more like an eco-lover’s dream. The blocky fixture is constructed from simple paper pulp, making the deceptively delicate piece a recyclable illuminator.

Foil Curtain

More Info: elasticco.com

This clever textile eliminates the need to fumble with curtain cords. Embedded magnets allow the drapes to be easily arranged—–and secured—–with a scrunch.

Åre Blanket

More Info: rorostweed.no

The subtle geometric forms on these Norwegian wool blankets emerge during production, when the tightly woven lines resist tufting and remain taut and ever-so-slightly debossed.

Quake Mug

Made by: Design House Stockholm
Price: $48.00
More Info: designhousestockholmusa.com

To create these collapsed cups, Nordenskiöld shook a tray of still-wet hand-thrown ceramic mugs. He then made molds of the originals to mass-produce them.